BBC Strictly Come Dancing says star forced to quit show after 'unfortunate' injury

A BBC Strictly Come Dancing star has been worryingly forced to pull out of the Christmas special and is being replaced by a fan favourite. ITV I'm A Celebrity star Vogue Williams has a new partner for the Christmas edition of the BBC show.

Strictly Come Dancing pro Carlos Gu has been forced to withdraw. Gorka Marquez will step in for Carlos while he recovers, taking over his partnership with Irish model Vogue, who is married to Channel 4 star and Made in Chelsea's Spencer Matthews.

A Strictly Come Dancing spokesperson confirmed the news, saying: "Unfortunately, professional dancer, Carlos Gu, has sustained an ankle injury so is unable to participate in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special alongside contestant Vogue Williams.

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"Fellow professional dancer, Gorka Márquez will be stepping in for him and dancing with Vogue. We all wish him a speedy recovery." Talking about her exciting news previously, Vogue, 39, said: "I’m so excited to join the Strictly family! Carlos would have more of a chance of winning a Nobel prize than turning me into a good dancer but I am determined to try my very best! I’m loving it so far, bring on the Ballroom floor."

Williams is a presenter, podcaster, DJ and fitness expert. Vogue is from Ireland and her broadcast work has ranged from presenting documentaries and hosting studio shows, to appearing in her own reality show. She is often seen presenting the fashion and red carpet segments on ITV’s Lorraine.

Vogue is an established podcaster known for My Therapist Ghosted Me, Spencer and Vogue and Never Live It Down. Vogue was a regular presenter friend on Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch, hosted Virgin Media’s Saturday night extravaganza and fronted her own Heart Radio weekend show.

Williams was announced as the third celebrity included in 2024’s Christmas line up on Strictly: It Takes Two on iPlayer and BBC Two.