Jaime Winstone has received an outpouring of support from her Strictly Come Dancing co-stars and fans after it was confirmed she will miss the upcoming episode due to a torn abdominal muscle.
The BBC said the actress had been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, would not dance in week seven of the competition, set to take place live this Saturday (November 7). In line with the rules of the show, she and her professional partner, Carlos Gu, will receive a bye through to next week.
Statement from Jaime Winstone
In a statement on Wednesday (November 4), 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."
She added: "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. 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."
Support from co-stars and judges
The BBC confirmed in its own statement: "In line with the rules of the show, Jaime and Carlos will receive a bye through to next week, when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Jaime the very best as she continues her recovery."
Fellow competitor Delta Goodrem, who missed a week of the competition last month due to a rib fracture, commented on Instagram: "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." Dani Dyer wrote: "We love you so much @jaimewinstone."
Professional dancer Dianne Buswell said "Sending love," while head judge Shirley Ballas commented: "We wish you a speedy recovery. Take care of yourself health first xx." Motsi Mabuse replied: "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!"
Recent competition history
Winstone, known for films including Made In Dagenham, Bullet Boy and Tomb Raider, and her partner, the reigning champion of the series, have narrowly avoided elimination after landing in their third dance-off during Halloween Week, which featured the show's first-ever triple dance-off.
Strictly Come Dancing continues at 6.30pm Saturday on BBC One.
