STRICTLY star Nigel Harman has spoken out about his recent departure from the show after sustaining a rib injury. The Casualty actor, 50, shared that he was rushed to the hospital after a painful fall. Harman made the announcement just hours before the live show.
An emotional exit
During tonight's programme, Harman joined hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, as well as his fellow contestants. When asked what happened, he tearfully explained, "I was leaping off a rostrum and was about to be caught by some handsome men, and as I flew I was Peter Pan and as I landed I was in A&E. I've done something to my rib, it's quite painful and I'm a little bit high on painkillers but I'm having a lovely time."
A heartfelt goodbye
Harman expressed his gratitude to his dance partner Katya and praised her for her hard work and support. He also revealed that leaving the show hadn't fully sunk in yet and that it was a sad moment for him. Katya, fighting back tears, said, "I've absolutely loved every moment of us creating magic on the dancefloor. I know your parents will be very proud of you and I hope you got something out of this that you're going to cherish forever in your broken rib."
Changes to the competition
Due to Harman's departure, this week's elimination has been scrapped. The remaining contestants, Ellie Leach, Annabel Croft, Layton Williams, and Bobby Brazier, will all move on to the next round. However, the judges will still score their performances, and those scores will be carried over. Voting will resume as usual next week.
Harman's exit comes after Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice withdrew from the competition earlier in the series due to medical reasons.
