Strictly Come Dancing viewers have expressed similar concerns after it was confirmed that professional dancer Kai Widdrington will be absent from this week's show due to illness, meaning he cannot dance alongside his celebrity partner, Delta Goodrem.
Delta will still take part, however. Following the announcement, it was confirmed that another professional will step in to cover for Kai while he recovers.
Another setback for the pair
The duo have experienced a turbulent run on the programme despite being a popular pairing. Fans have voiced anxieties over what might unfold in this year's series as the remaining contestants prepare to take to the dance floor again this evening (November 14).
Delta and Kai have endured a challenging time in the competition, despite consistently achieving relatively high scores. Previously, Delta also sustained an injury which forced them to withdraw from a performance.
Official statement and fan reactions
The news regarding Kai was announced by Strictly in a statement on Friday that read: "Due to illness, Kai is unable to dance on tomorrow night's show. Instead, Aljaž will step in to dance the Argentine Tango with Delta. We're sending Kai all our love and hope he feels better very soon."
Fans have been vocal since, offering similar reactions to the situation. One said: "Poor Delta (and Kai) going through the trenches this series." Another added: "You've had some bad luck @deltagoodrem haven't you? I hope it all goes smoothly tomorrow!"
A third replied: "This couple has gone through so much. Oh my goodness!" Meanwhile, a fourth commented: "This couple has gone through so much this season with Delta's injury and now Kai being unwell. I hope Kai has a speedy but safe recovery." One more also responded: "Poor Kai and Delta. Not much time for Delta to get used to a new partner."
Confidence remains high
While numerous viewers are anxious, others were swift to suggest they believe the pair will be absolutely fine. On X, one viewer wrote: "Delta and Kai have had everything thrown against them this series. Delta getting a rib injury in Week 4, meaning she missed Icons week. Kai being struck down with illness in Week 8 the week before Blackpool. I have no doubts however that Delta will pull this off and luckily she's dancing an Argentine Tango, so Delta should be fine. Fingers crossed if Delta makes it through Kai will be well enough for Blackpool next week."
Another added: "I feel sorry for Kai, but she will be in safe hands." Strictly Come Dancing is currently available to view on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday evenings.
