Emmerdale’s Kelvin Fletcher replaces Jamie Laing on Strictly Come Dancing
Emmerdale’s Kelvin Fletcher has been confirmed to replace Jamie Laing on Strictly Come Dancing.
Made In Chelsea star Jamie was one of the fifteen celebrity contestants on this year’s series.
However the BBC announced last week that Jamie had been forced to quit Strictly before the first live show due to an injury.
Now soap star Kelvin Fletcher has been confirmed to join the cast in his place.
Kelvin is an actor, best known for playing Andy Sugden on the ITV soap opera Emmerdale from 1996 to 2016.
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.”
Kelvin will be partnered with Oti Mabuse and will feature in the first live show on Saturday 21st September.
Last night saw Jamie appear in the pre-recorded Strictly launch show where he was originally partnered up with Oti.
Announcing his departure ahead of the episode, the BBC said: “Sadly due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing. As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday, 7th September.”
Reacting to his exit last week, Jamie said he was “absolutely devastated” to be leaving.
He said: “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.”
Strictly Come Dancing’s live shows will begin on September 21.
