Strictly Come Dancing professional Kai Widdrington has shared what makes his dance partner Delta Goodrem so special as the singer prepares to return to the ballroom this weekend following a rib injury.
The 41-year-old singer was forced to sit out last week's live show after injuring her ribs early last week, ahead of her performance on Saturday, October 10. Her condition worsened as the week went on, but she still danced on the live BBC show despite being in excruciating pain.
Kai praises Delta's professionalism
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror on the red carpet at the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards, Kai gave an insight into how Delta has been getting on as they prepare for Saturday's show.
He said: "Delta really enjoyed it too. It is nice being back in training. We're looking forward to Saturday. She is doing good. She has a heart of gold, and her spirit is so pure and honest."
"She brings that energy to the training room and to the dance floor. She is unapologetically herself. She is such a professional with the way she carries herself around the place and the way she conducts herself on and off the dance floor, so to have that energy around me every day is very inspiring."
Confidence ahead of the ballroom return
With the competition heating up, the pressure will be on the pair to impress both the judges and viewers at home when they return. Kai kept his expectations measured but made clear he has faith in his celebrity partner.
He added: "We will see what happens Saturday, but I am confident in my partner."
Speaking of former professional dancer Johannes Radebe, who has taken on the role of presenter, Kai commented: "He's been brilliant, he's one of my best friends, so to see him shining up there, he's amazing. He used to be my roommate 11 years ago, way before Strictly was on the cards."
"When we were in South Africa together, he was telling me where he used to live, so to see him here, shining like the light he is, it's the most amazing thing. I think Britain has kind of adopted him as one of our own."
Injury and recovery
Delta had planned to dance to Dolly Parton's "Jolene" with Kai during Icons Week, but Amy Dowden performed it instead. A spokesperson for the show said: "Due to injury, Delta Goodrem has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance on this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing."
"In line with the rules of the show, Delta and Kai will receive a bye through to next week, when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Delta the very best as she continues her recovery."
Delta added: "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."
"I cannot tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I'm going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I'll be back on that dancefloor 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!"
