Concern is spreading among Strictly Come Dancing viewers after the revelation that actress Alex Kingston performed during the prestigious Blackpool special with a significant injury.
Another Contestant Bitten by the Injury Bug
The latest series of the BBC's flagship dance programme has been plagued by health setbacks, leading to several unexpected exits. Former Doctor Who star Alex Kingston is the fourth celebrity to be affected, following her daughter Salome Violetta Haertel's social media disclosure. She posted a proud tribute to her mother, revealing Alex had danced with a 'dislocated rib' during Saturday's live show at the Tower Ballroom.
Despite the painful condition, Alex and her professional partner Johannes Radebe delivered a stunning couple's choice routine that impressed the judges, earning them an impressive 35 out of 40 points.
A Growing List of Withdrawals
The competition has already seen a string of departures due to physical ailments. Dani Dyer was forced to withdraw after the launch show because of an ankle injury. Shortly after, Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis, 67, had to leave in October after tearing a calf muscle.
The most recent exit was La Voix, who missed the Blackpool shows entirely after suffering a bone bruise on her foot. As Saturday's programme began, host Tess Daly announced the RuPaul's Drag Race UK star had quit the competition completely. This led to the unprecedented decision that no celebrity would be eliminated from the Blackpool event.
Fan Anxiety and What Happens Next
The news of Alex Kingston's injury has sparked considerable worry amongst the show's dedicated fanbase on social media platform X. One viewer posted, 'Worried about Alex and this injury,' while another commented, 'Alex Kingston is my favourite this series. I'll be so sad if she is forced to withdraw.' A third observer noted visible tape on her torso, pleading, 'God please don't let this bs ruin Alex's dream.'
With La Voix's departure, the path forward has shifted. All six remaining couples will automatically progress to the next live show on Saturday, November 29. The points from the judges and the public votes from this weekend will be carried over and combined with next week's scores. The BBC has been contacted for an official statement regarding the mounting injury concerns.
