Jaime Winstone has been ruled out of this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing after sustaining a torn abdominal muscle during rehearsals. The actress said she was "absolutely devastated" to miss the show and is "in considerable pain", but hopes to return to the dancefloor soon.
Injury during salsa rehearsals
A source told The Sun that Winstone was injured while practising lifts for her salsa routine. "Jaime injured herself doing the lifts while practicing a very spritely salsa. She saw an on-set physio straight away, but still wanted to perform as she had worked so hard and loves dancing," the source said.
"She was a real trouper and just soldiered on though the pain. The show's producers kept a close eye on her, but she managed to grin and bear it."
Statement from Jaime Winstone
In a statement issued by Strictly, 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."
"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."
She continued: "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 dancefloor very soon."
Support from fellow stars
Her fellow contestants have sent messages of support as she recovers. Judge Motsi Mabuse posted: "Sending you so much love, darling. Your health always comes first. Take the time you need to rest, recover and get your strength back. We'll miss you this week, but what matters most is that you feel better. Wishing you a speedy recovery and sending you the biggest hug!"
Josh Widdicombe remarked, "Speedy recovery Jaime," while Dani Dyer added: "We love you so much @jaimewinstone." John Nellis wrote: "Best of luck recovering Jaime."
Delta Goodrem, who rejoined the competition several weeks ago following her own injury, shared: "Ahhhh sending all the healing energy beautiful Jaime the same way you gave me so much love and support! Heal and rest, get better. We come back fighting!! xxx."
Background and next steps
Winstone is an actress known for roles across television, film and theatre, and most recently for stepping into one of Albert Square's most iconic roles as a young Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders.
Strictly Come Dancing is back on BBC One on Saturday at 6.30pm.
