Dani Dyer's Strictly partner Nikita Kuzmin breaks silence with emotional message after show exit

Professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin has issued a statement following the news that his celebrity partner Dani Dyer has dropped out of this year's Strictly Come Dancing. She announced her departure from the show earlier this week.

It was announced yesterday that Love Island winner Dani, 29, won't becontinuing in the BBC dance contest following an injury in rehearsals, with her having expressed disappointment over the situation. The news cames just days before the first live show of the new series, which launched on Saturday.

The pre-recorded launch episode on the weekend unveiled each of the pairings for the latest series. It was revealed that Dani would be with Nikita, 27, and she said upon meeting her dance partner: "I'm so happy. I literally am in shock."

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Following the news that Dani has withdrawn from Strictly, Nikita issued a statement. Alongside behind-the-scenes photos, he wrote on Instagram tonight: "So so gutted to have finished our journey before it even properly started.

"The amount of laughs and fun we had in this short time was unbelievable! Really loved our partnership and hope that one day we can actually get to week 1 lol but, heath is the most important thing. I'm wishing you the absolute best [Dani]."

He added: "You're so lovely, positive and a wonderful human being!! And it breaks my heart knowing how excited you were to do your absolute best on the show! Hopefully we can pick up next year :) Love from #danita or #dakita or #Nani (WE ACTUALLY HAVENT DECIDED ON THE TEAM NAME IN TIME)."

Yesterday, the BBC announced that Dani will no longer compete on Strictly this year. It was revealed that she fractured her ankle amid rehearsals, with her saying in a statement: "I had a fall on Friday in rehearsals and landed funny.

"I thought I had rolled my foot but it swelled up badly over the weekend and after an MRI scan yesterday, it turns out I have fractured my ankle. Apparently doing the quickstep on a fracture is not advisable and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance so l've had to pull out of the show."

Dani then shared her disappointment. She said in the statement: "To say I'm heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will of course be watching closely and cheering all the couples on."

Sarah James, executive producer at BBC Studios, said that those behind the show are "incredibly sad" over the situation. Sarah said in a statement: "Dani has brought so much passion, joy and enthusiasm to Strictly, and her partnership with Nikita was off to the most sensational start.

"Everyone on the show is incredibly sad that she's no longer able to compete in this year's series. We send her all our love and best wishes for a swift recovery, and we very much hope to welcome her back to the ballroom in the future."

The news prompted reaction on social media, including from colleagues. Replying to the news on Instagram, Strictly judge Shirley Ballas wrote on the platform: "I'm so so sorry. But health is most important. Get well soon Angel."

Fellow judge Motsi Mabuse said: "Oh so sorry. Get well soon. Health first." Whilst other pros also responded to the news, like Gorka Márquez who commented: "So gutted for you guys! [Dani and Nikita]. Hope you get well soon."

The new series of Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday night from 6.55pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer with the first of the live shows.

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