Strictly Come Dancing announces Jamie Laing’s replacement

The Made in Chelsea star was forced to pull out of the show due to an injury

Jamie Laing at Strictly Come Dancing launch

by Nathan Katnoria |
Updated on

Just days after he was forced to pull out of the show after injuring himself while recording for the series’ launch, Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing’s Strictly Come Dancing replacement has been announced by the BBC.

Former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher, who starred as Andy Sugden in the ITV soap for 20 years, will join the line-up in Jamie’s place.

Kelvin Fletcher
©Getty

Speaking about joining the show, Kelvin said: “Is this really happening?! It's been the most surreal week of my life! I'm a massive fan of Strictly so it's incredible. I'm so happy that I can be a part of it.

“But at the same time it's quite bittersweet. I'm coming in on the back of Jamie's injury – I keep thinking about him!

“I can't imagine going through all this excitement and then having to pull out. My thoughts are with him – he seems like a fantastic guy and I hope he's doing OK.”

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Kelvin will be partnered with professional dancer Oti Mabuse, whose sister Motsi recently joined the judging panel alongside Craig Revel-Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Bruno Tonioli.

Kelvin and and Oti will make their Strictly debut on the first live show on Saturday 21st September.

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Jamie was forced to pull out of Strictly just two days before the launch show after landing awkwardly during a group dance and injuring himself. He’s since been pictured walking with crutches.

Speaking about quitting the competition, Jamie said: “I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest.”

Strictly's executive producer Sarah James added: “We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

“We all wish him a full and speedy recovery."

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