Strictly Come Dancing 2019: Jamie Laing’s replacement revealed as Emmerdale star

Jamie Laing was forced to withdraw from Strictly Come Dancing earlier in the week following an injury.

Since then, all eyes have been on who would replace the Made In Chelsea star and dance with Oti Mabuse.

Now, the BBC has confirmed the identity of the individual who will be stepping into Jamie’s shoes. 

It’s none other than former Emmerdale star, Kelvin Fletcher, who was famous for playing Andy Sugden.

In a statement issued to press including Express.co.uk, Kelvin admitted it’s been a whirlwind week but he is over the moon to be joining the show.

The actor 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.”

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing partners 2019: Who are the Strictly couples? Full list revealed

Kelvin will make his first appearance with Oti on Saturday 21 September.

Jamie was forced to pull out of this year’s Strictly line-up after injuring his leg while dancing.

On tonight’s launch show, the Made In Chelsea star revealed why he can no longer carry on his Strictly journey.

In behind-the-scenes footage, Jamie said: “As I did the first dance, as I kicked off I felt a pop and a searing pain in my foot.”

He continued: “So I saw the physio, he says we have to wait for an MRI and see what happens because there’s definitely swelling, definitely tissue damage.”

Sharing an update, Jamie revealed: “Hello everyone I just wanted to give you a quick update on my foot.

“Now because of the injury it means I am going to be in the boot eight weeks recovering which means I won’t be a part of the show.

Oti Mabuse hugged Jamie and remarked: “You will be missed.”

“Thank you for being awesome,” Jamie told his Strictly partner.

Jamie went on to wish his dancing co-stars luck for the coming weeks and reassure them he’ll be cheering them on from the audience. 

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One on Saturday 21 September.

source: express.co.uk