Strictly Come Dancing contestant Balvinder Sopal has been forced to miss the BBC show due to an injury, casting doubt on her participation in the upcoming semi-final. The EastEnders actress, 47, was seen limping during rehearsals and has been advised to rest by medical staff.
Sources close to the production confirm that Sopal sustained the injury during a training session earlier this week. A spokesperson for the show said: 'Balvinder is receiving treatment and we hope she will be able to dance on Saturday. Her health is our priority.'
The news comes as a blow to fans who have seen Sopal surge in the betting odds, moving from the bottom of the leaderboard to become a potential contender for the Glitterball Trophy. Bookmakers had placed her as a strong outsider following the elimination of Lewis Cope last week.
Sopal's absence would leave Amber Davies, George Clarke, and Karen Carney as the remaining semi-finalists. Davies, a former Love Island star, has faced criticism over her dance background but remains in the competition after surviving five dance-offs.
Strictly bosses are expected to make a final decision on Sopal's participation later today. The semi-final is scheduled for Saturday night, with the results show on Sunday.
