Strictly Come Dancing contestant Jaime Winstone has been forced to withdraw from this weekend's live show after sustaining an injury. The actress has been advised by medical professionals to rest and will therefore be absent from the programme.
Under the show's regulations, Jaime and her professional partner Carlos Gu will progress automatically to next week, when they hope to return to performing. The BBC said: "We wish Jaime the very best as she continues her recovery."
Jaime's statement on her injury
Jaime commented on her situation: "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."
She added: "As frustrating as it is, I have to put my health first and follow their advice to step away from dancing this week. 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."
Jaime also expressed gratitude to supporters: "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."
Fans and judges send support
The official Strictly Instagram account shared the news, prompting fans to flood the comments with messages of disappointment and well-wishes for Jaime's recovery. Head judge Shirley Ballas commented: "@jaimewinstone we wish you a speedy recovery. Take care of yourself health first xx".
One viewer wrote: "Nooo Jaime, wishing her the speeeediest recovery and so much health and healing." Professional dancer Dianne Buswell shared: "Sending love."
A further fan posted: "Absolutely gutting but praying for a speedy recovery so we can all watch her shine once again." Another follower remarked: "She can't catch a break bless her!" An additional follower contributed: "Poor wee lass, rest up and get well soon." A final supporter added: "Wishing you a speedy recovery."
Previous dance-off appearance
Jaime had been involved in the programme's first triple dance-off the previous week, facing actor Lawrence Robb and actress Bethany Antonia. The three couples had finished at the foot of the leaderboard after the judges' scores were combined with the public vote.
Rather than voting for the couple they wished to save, the judges were required to vote for the couple they wanted to eliminate. Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood all chose Lawrence and Jowita. As a result, Emmerdale actor Lawrence became the fifth contestant to leave the competition.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One on Saturday at 6.30pm.
