Delta Goodrem's Strictly Come Dancing journey has hit another obstacle, as her professional partner Kai Widdrington has been forced to sit out the live show on Saturday, November 14, due to illness. The BBC announced the change on its official Instagram account on Friday, November 13.
The statement read: "Due to illness, Kai is unable to dance on tomorrow night's show. Instead, Aljaž [Škorjanec] will step in to dance the Argentine Tango with Delta. We're sending Kai all our love and hope he feels better very soon."
Previous Setbacks on the Show
This is not the first difficulty Delta has faced during her time on the BBC show. She was previously forced to pull out of Icons Week due to a rib injury last month. In a statement at the time, she said: "I'm absolutely gutted that a rib injury means I won't be able to dance on Strictly this week. I've been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking - especially after the high of Saturday night."
She added: "I can not tell you how much I love being part of this magical show. I'm going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I'll be back on that dance floor very soon. Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support. It's so appreciated. I'll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week! Sending all my love, Delta xx."
Fan Reactions to the Partner Change
After learning that Aljaž would be stepping in at the last minute, several fans expressed concern that Delta could miss the chance to reach Blackpool Week. One person wrote on X: "Terrible news for Delta - having to change partners at the last minute cos Kai's not well. Her #Strictly journey sure has been bumpy!"
Another added: "The Argentine Tango is such a tricky dance. I fear for her this week." A third said: "Bit worried for Delta this week I'm not going to lie." Someone else echoed the concern, saying: "Oh no, not looking good."
Other fans shared their support for Delta and Aljaž. One person wrote: "Poor Kai, I hope he gets better soon. Glad it's Aljaž, I know him and Delta will smash it." Another added: "Get well soon, Kai! You'll definitely be missed on that dance floor. Wishing Delta and Aljaž a beautiful performance!" while someone else similarly shared: "I know Aljaž will do wonderful with Delta."
This Weekend's Performance
This weekend, Delta and Aljaž will perform an Argentine Tango to "Missing" by Everything but the Girl, as they aim for a place at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. They will be hoping to impress judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke.
Who will top the leaderboard and who will be at risk of leaving the competition remains to be seen. Strictly Come Dancing is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
