Strictly Come Dancing contestant Jaime Winstone is missing this week's live show after being advised by medical professionals to rest due to a torn abdominal muscle. The actress said she was "absolutely devastated" to step away from the dance floor.
Injury forces withdrawal
Winstone and her professional partner Carlos Gu will be granted a bye through to next week, when it is anticipated they will be capable of dancing once more. The decision follows her participation in the triple dance-off during Halloween week, where she performed alongside actor Lawrence Robb and actress Bethany Antonia. The judging panel opted to send Lawrence home, giving Winstone the chance to master a fresh routine for this week.
In a personal statement, Winstone said: "I am absolutely devastated not to be dancing this weekend due to a torn abdominal muscle. I am in considerable pain, and my doctors have advised complete rest to give my body the best possible chance to heal."
Recovery and support
She added: "As frustrating as it is, I have to put my health first and follow their advice to step away from dancing this week. I love every moment of dancing and performing with Carlos, and I am praying for a speedy recovery so that I can continue this magical journey."
Sources suggested the injury occurred while she was rehearsing a lift during a salsa practice session. She reportedly consulted an on-site physiotherapist immediately and was determined to take part in Saturday's live broadcast, but the choice was ultimately made for her to prioritise a full recovery.
Supporters took to X to discuss Winstone's withdrawal, with one saying: "This could cause a shock bottom 2 this week, but the odds are more on it pretty much being certain Bethany will be there. If Graeme or John are doing a Latin, I do worry for them #Strictly." Another supporter rallied behind Winstone following remarks suggesting her injury was a "fix", posting: "Those of you who are writing nasty comments here, especially those of you accusing Jaime of exaggerating or faking an injury just so she won't be in the dance off again, should take a long hard look at yourselves."
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One tonight at 6.30pm.
