Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing has pulled out of this year's Strictly Come Dancing after injuring his foot during the recording of the launch show. The 30-year-old will appear in the pre-recorded launch episode on BBC One on Saturday, but will not take any further part in the competition.
Laing said: 'I'm absolutely devastated that I'm unable to continue in the competition. I was so excited to hit the dance floor.' He was seen at the weekend on crutches and wearing a protective boot. No details have been released about a possible replacement.
Executive producer Sarah James said: 'We are so sad that Jamie won't be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm. We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.'
Fellow contestant Chris Ramsey said he was 'gutted' by the news, while former footballer Alex Scott wished Laing a quick recovery. Withdrawals from Strictly are rare, with only a handful of contestants leaving without being voted off in the show's 17-series history.
Laing has been a star of Channel 4's Made In Chelsea since 2011 and also co-hosts the Private Parts podcast. This year's Strictly line-up also includes Anneka Rice, James Cracknell, David James, Mike Bushell, and Catherine Tyldesley.
