Strictly Come Dancing professional Kai Widdrington could be forced to pull out of the rest of the 2026 series due to illness, according to reports. The 31-year-old dancer was taken to hospital after falling unwell and missed Saturday night's live show.
Last-Minute Replacement
Aljaž Škorjanec stepped in at short notice to perform the Argentine Tango with Kai's partner Delta Goodrem, with judges awarding the pair 35 out of 40 points. Kai's absence was announced on Friday, when the BBC confirmed he would be unable to perform.
"Due to illness, Kai is unable to dance on tomorrow night's show," the statement said. "Instead, Aljaz will step in to dance the Argentine Tango with Delta." The BBC added: "We're sending all our love and hope he feels better soon."
Uncertain Future
It has now been reported that Kai's mystery illness could force him to quit the series entirely, ending his hopes of lifting the glitterball trophy with the Australian singer. "He's spent the whole week talking about how he was just one dance from Blackpool, and suddenly he's out," an insider told The Sun.
"The fear he may be out for the series is real. No one can say until next week."
Support from Delta and Kai
Addressing Kai's absence in her Strictly VT before her performance, Delta said: "It was an extremely crazy week. Obviously, we are so sad Kai got so unwell and he had to go to the hospital. I am sending him so much love and I'm so proud of my dance partner. No doubt he will be strong. Aljaz was so incredible and such an inspiration. I couldn't believe the way he just jumped in. I felt very much in safe hands."
Kai's spokesperson added: "He's at home resting and I'm sure the show will be putting out further statements next week." On Saturday night, Kai shared clips of Delta and Aljaž performing on the BBC on his Instagram Stories, along with messages expressing pride in them both. He could be heard exclaiming "Let's go, let's go" while watching the broadcast, and later said: "Yes! They did brilliantly."
