Strictly Come Dancing professional Kai Widdrington was visibly emotional as he watched his celebrity partner Delta Goodrem perform from home, days after being hospitalised. The dancer fell ill during the week, prompting Aljaz Skorjanec to step in and partner Delta for the Argentine Tango, a routine that earned the pair 35 out of 40.
Delta's Emotional Tribute
Speaking on the show, Delta revealed the severity of Kai's illness, saying: "It was an extremely crazy week, and obviously we're so sad that Kai got so unwell yesterday; he had to go to the hospital. We're both sending him so much love watching tonight. I'm so proud of my dance partner and no doubt he'll be strong and come back."
Kai later shared videos of himself watching from home as Delta and Aljaz danced the Argentine Tango to "Missing" by Everything But The Girl. The dancer appeared emotional, holding his head in his hands before clapping at the television in support of the performance.
Support from Loved Ones
Kai also shared a post from his girlfriend Chloe, who wrote: "Different Saturday night tonight watching with my patient Kai. But we're cheering everyone on from the sofa, especially Delta and Aljaz."
In a statement confirming Kai's illness, Strictly said: "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."
Competition Challenges
The competition has been tough for Delta and Kai, as Delta previously suffered a rib injury a few weeks back. Under the competition rules, other professional dancers can step in for their fellow pros, but when a celebrity is sick or injured, they are granted a bye to the next week. However, if the injury persists and they miss another week, they must leave the competition. Delta was able to return, and Kai previously told The Mirror how glad he was to have her back.
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."
