Jamie Laing has been forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing.
The Made In Chelsea star suffered an injury to his foot during filming of this year’s launch show, which means he’s now not able to compete in the series.
He said in a statement: “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.”
He later posted a video on Instagram explaining the situation further.
While Jamie is now out of the competition, he will still appear the on the pre-recorded launch show, which airs on Saturday.
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.”
Earlier this week, Jamie was pictured using crutches and sporting a “moon boot”, prompting speculation about his future on the show.
According to The Sun, Jamie “landed awkwardly” on his foot during the group number in the launch show, which was filmed last Friday night.
During the show, the celebrities also discovered which professional dancer they’ll be performing with for the duration of their time on Strictly, with the pairs now in rehearsals until the first live show later this month.
Many of his co-stars shared their devastation at Jamie’s exit on Twitter…
Jamie was a notable addition to the new line-up, as Strictly bosses had previously stayed away from casting reality stars in recent years.
The Made In Chelsea cast member the first reality star to take part since former TOWIE star Mark Wright appeared in 2014.
It is not currently known if Jamie will be replaced on this year’s line-up, though the BBC has said “further information will be issued in due course”.
Among the 14 other celebrities taking to the floor this year are RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage, EastEnders actress Emma Barton, former Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley, former England goalkeeper David James and comedian Chris Ramsey.
Strictly Come Dancing begins on Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One.
