Nigel Harman has been forced to hang up his dancing shoes early.
The actor, who was partnered with Katya Jones, confirmed he has left the show on “medical grounds” on Saturday hours before this week’s live show.
Revealing the reason for his shock exit from Strictly, Nigel said that he had been hospitalised due to an injury he had sustained during rehearsals.
Speaking to host Claudia Winkleman the 50-year-old said, “I was about to be caught by some very handsome men but when I landed, I’ve done something to my rib. I’m a little high on painkillers.”
Though Nigel’s time was cut short, he insisted that he enjoyed his time on the dancefloor.
“Oh I’ve loved it, I’ve loved it. This hasn’t really sunk in,” he said, “When I was watching everyone coming down the stairs, it was real that I’m not part of it anymore.”
Kayta was full of praise for her former dance partner, even being emotional as she reflected on their time together.
“I have absolutely loved every moment of us creating magic on the dancefloor,” the dancer said, “I know the reasons he did this were for your daughter and your parents and I know your parents will be very proud of you.
“I hope you’ve got something out of this that you will cherish forever in your broken rib.”
Nigel replied, “The only reason I’m standing here is because of all the work you’ve put in. You challenge me, you push me, you support me. Most of all, you’re just part of me now.”
Becoming emotional, he added: “I can’t even look at you!”
Nigel is the second celebrity to quit the show early after actress Amanda Abbington departed for “personal reasons”.
READ MORE:
- People in tears at Irish pub’s emotional Christmas advert
- Toy Show legend Sheamie responds to his newfound fame
- Food critic Grace Dent has left I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here
