In a devastating blow to Strictly Come Dancing fans, former England football star Karen Carney has been forced to withdraw from the competition due to a significant injury. The sports presenter confirmed the heartbreaking news just weeks into the 2024 series, leaving viewers and fellow contestants stunned.
Gut-Wrenching Decision
Carney, who had been partnered with professional dancer Gorka Márquez, described herself as "absolutely gutted" by the development. The injury occurred during training, though specific details about the nature of the injury remain undisclosed.
"This isn't how I saw my Strictly journey ending," Carney expressed in an emotional statement. "I was loving every moment of the experience and had formed such a wonderful partnership with Gorka."
Strictly's Unexpected Departure
The withdrawal marks one of the earliest exits in recent Strictly history and has sent shockwaves through the Strictly community. Carney had been showing promising progress in her dancing abilities and had received positive feedback from the judges in previous weeks.
Fellow contestants have rallied around the former footballer, offering support and sympathy for her unfortunate situation. The production team has confirmed they will not be replacing Carney in the competition, meaning this week will proceed with one less couple.
From Football Pitch to Dance Floor
Carney's participation in Strictly had been particularly noteworthy given her impressive sports background. The former Chelsea and England midfielder earned 144 caps for her country before transitioning into sports punditry.
Many fans had been excited to see how her athletic discipline would translate to the dance floor, making her premature departure all the more disappointing for viewers who had been following her journey.
The BBC has confirmed that Carney will make a final appearance on the show to say goodbye to viewers and her fellow contestants properly. Strictly Come Dancing continues this weekend on BBC One, with the remaining celebrities competing for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
