Strictly Come Dancing contestant Jaime Winstone has pulled out of this weekend's live show after suffering a torn abdominal muscle. The actress and her professional partner Carlos Gu will receive a bye through to next week, when it is hoped they will be fit to dance again.
The BBC confirmed the news, saying: "We wish Jaime the very best as she continues her recovery." Medical professionals have instructed Winstone to rest, meaning she will not take part in Saturday's programme.
Winstone speaks out on injury
Winstone expressed her disappointment in a statement: "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."
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."
Winstone also thanked fans for their support, saying: "I want to thank everyone for their incredible support so far. It means more than you know. Wishing everyone on the show all the luck, love and strength for Saturday night and I hope to be back on that dance floor very soon. With love, Jaime."
Fans and colleagues send support
The official Strictly Instagram account broke the news, with followers flooding the comments to send their best wishes. Head judge Shirley Ballas wrote: "@jaimewinstone we wish you a speedy recovery. Take care of yourself health first xx."
Professional dancer Dianne Buswell shared: "Sending love." One viewer commented: "Nooo Jaime, wishing her the speeeediest recovery and so much health and healing." Another wrote: "Absolutely gutting but praying for a speedy recovery so we can all watch her shine once again."
Recent dance-off appearance
The news comes after Winstone found herself in the programme's first triple dance-off last week, competing against actor Lawrence Robb and actress Bethany Antonia. The trio landed at the bottom after the judges' scores were combined with the public votes.
Rather than voting for the couple they wished to save, the judges cast their votes for the couple they wanted to eliminate. Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood all chose Lawrence and Jowita, meaning Emmerdale actor Lawrence became the fifth contestant to depart the competition.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One on Saturday at 6.30pm.
