Actor and DJ Kristian Nairn has withdrawn from the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, for medical reasons.
Kristian Nairn says: “With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons. I was truly looking forward to the journey, and I’m deeply sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor. Thank you all for your support, and I will be back on my feet very soon, in every sense. Love to all, Kristian.”
Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios says: “We’ve absolutely loved getting to know Kristian in this short time, and he has all the makings of a brilliant Strictly Come Dancing contestant. We’re incredibly sorry to lose him from this year’s series and we all wish him a speedy recovery.”
Actor Lewis Cope joins the cast of Strictly Come Dancing 2025
Lewis Cope has been announced to join the new series of Strictly Come Dancing. The multi-award-winning entertainment show, produced by BBC Studios, will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer for its new series this September.
Lewis is best known for his performance in ITV’sEmmerdale as series regular Nicky Milligan, who in an explosive storyline was revealed to be a member of the series’ iconic Tate and Dingle families. Lewis was nominated for the Rising Star Award at the 2023 National Television Awards for the role. Away from the Dales, Lewis’ other television work includes roles inVera, Mrs Sidhu Investigates, and Hetty Feather and he previously worked with David Beckham on an advertising campaign. On stage, Lewis has played the lead role of Leonard Vole in the Olivier-nominatedAgatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution, has toured the UK in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and, at the age of 11, he made his stage debut playing Michael in the West End smash Billy Elliot: The Musical.
On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Lewis Cope says: “I’m so excited to be swapping the Dales for the dance floor and joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve always been a fan of the show and cannot wait to get started!”
The news was revealed on tonight’s episode of The One Show, following Kristian Nairn’s earlier announcement of his departure from this year’s competition.
