Nigel Harman has quit Strictly Come Dancing just hours before Saturday night’s live show after suffering an injury.
The 50-year-old actor was preparing to perform a “Charleston to Step in Time” from Mary Poppins alongside his professional partner Katya Jones for the quarter-finals.
However, he was forced to pull out of the BBC dance competition for health reasons after sustaining an injury, which he said left him “really disappointed”.
The BBC confirmed to Web: “Unfortunately Nigel has injured himself which means he cannot appear on the show tonight and has had to withdraw from Strictly.”
Nigel isn’t the only star to leave the 2023 series of Strictly after Amanda Abbington – who was dating Giovanni Pernice – exited for medical reasons in October.
Nigel Harman (pictured after training on Monday) has quit Strictly Come Dancing just hours before Saturday night’s live show after suffering an injury
The 50-year-old actor was due to perform a Mary Poppins ‘Charleston to Step in Time’ in the quarter-finals alongside his professional partner Katya Jones (both of whom appeared on the show last week).
However, he was forced to pull out of the BBC dance competition for health reasons after sustaining an injury, which he said left him “really disappointed”.
Nigel reportedly missed training on Saturday morning following his elimination after working “really hard” in rehearsals to secure a place in the final.
A source told The Sun: “Nigel was not in training this morning and other dancers were informed later in the day. “He and Katya were really disappointed as they had hoped to stay in the competition.
“They weren’t in the final two and so had a real chance of making it to the final.”
“Nigel trained very hard and with a lot of passion right up until the rehearsals.”
After his elimination, only Ellie Leach, Bobby Brazier, Layton Williams and Annabel Croft remain in the fight for the legendary Glitterball trophy.
After the BBC announced the news on social media, fans were quick to take to the comments section to express their dismay at the popular star’s exit.
Others also questioned whether there will be a public vote following Nigel’s departure or whether the final’s scheduled date of December 16 will change. Web understands the logistical details of any changes will be announced in Saturday evening’s episode.
Nigel isn’t the only star to leave the 2023 series of Strictly after Amanda Abbington – who was dating Giovanni Pernice – exited for medical reasons in October
STRICTLY COME DANCING 2023: THE PROFILES OF THE PARTICIPANTS
Layton Williams
Age: 28
Profession: actor
Layton says: “I’m absolutely delighted to confirm that I’ll be taking part in the UK’s most famous dance competition!” It’s time to take it to the ballroom. I really enjoy learning new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!’
Age: 22
Occupation: Coronation Street star
Ellie says: “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be doing Strictly!!” It’s always been a dream of mine so I guess dreams really do come true!!!!”
Age: 20
Occupation: EastEnders star and model
Bobby said: “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly line-up that I can’t wait to start training like a professional dancer and add some moves to my repertoire.” “I’m excited “Looking forward to performing in front of everyone.”
Nigel Harman
Age: 49
Profession: actor
Nigel says: “I’m amazed, excited and scared to be doing Strictly.” As an armchair fan of the show, I watched in awe as people twisted and turned around the screen. And now it’s my turn…Gulp!’
Age: 57
Occupation: Broadcaster and former tennis player
Annabel said: “I’ve always loved watching Strictly and I can’t believe I’m going to be part of this magical show – swapping tennis balls for glitter balls and looking forward to finding some joy along the way.”