Brendan Cole will NOT return to Strictly Come Dancing tonight.
The professional dancer was struck down with a bad lung infection last week and rushed to hospital with breathing difficulties.
He has now pulled out of tonight’s live performance as he continues to recover.
A source told The Sun: "He’s a perfectionist and extremely hard working so for him to have to take a back seat has been very difficult indeed.
"He has to be careful and listen to his body and a lung infection like he has is no laughing matter. He’s been resting as much as possible on Doctor’s orders."
Brendan, who is partnered with singer Anastacia, is said to be "gutted" he’s unable to take part but fellow Strictly pro Gorka Marquez will take his place.
"Obviously he’s still been very much involved but he’s had no choice but to take a back seat," the source added.
"He cannot wait to get back into the competition for next week and hopes that Anastasia and Gorka manage to get through to perform again."
Brendan thanked NHS staff for their help after he was treated at hospital for his illness last week.
The news comes as it’s emerged a number of the show’s professional dancers have been struck down with flu-like symptoms, reportedly sending bosses into a panic.
A source said: "Producers are now concerned some of the other pros could be following in Brendan’s footsteps.
"They have to rehearse and dance very intimately. And at the moment they are dropping like flies."