Who will replace Jamie Laing on Strictly Come Dancing?

Jamie Laing has withdrawn from Strictly Come Dancing due to an injury – but who will replace him?

The Made In Chelsea star was one of the fifteen celebrity contestants on this year’s series.

However the BBC announced last week (September 5) that Jamie had been forced to quit Strictly before the first live show due to an injury.

In a statement 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.”

With the series yet to start, there’s been speculation about a possible replacement celebrity contestant taking Jamie’s place.

Host Tess Daly confirmed Jamie would be replaced and the news is set to be revealed on Sunday, September 8.

She told the Metro newspaper: “I can confirm there will be a replacement and I’ll find out on Sunday who that is. I think that’s when everybody will get the news but that’s when I find out, I know.”

It’s rumoured that Emmerdale’s Kevin Fletcher has been lined up to take Jamie’s spot in the line up.

However the BBC has not confirmed any replacement just yet, saying simply: “Further information will be issued in due course.”

For now, Jamie has reacted to his exit, saying he’s “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.”

The pre-recorded Strictly Come Dancing launch will go ahead as scheduled on Saturday, September 7 from 7:10PM.

The launch episode will see the celebs – including Jamie – and pros are paired up before taking to the dancefloor for the first time in a group dance.

Strictly’s live shows will then begin on Saturday, September 21, giving a potential replacement a couple of weeks to get involved.