The 15 celebrities set to take to the ballroom floor were only officially confirmed last week
Celebrities confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2025(Image: BBC)Strictly Come Dancing fans have said they’re ‘gutted’ as one of the stars of the upcoming series was forced to withdraw ahead of the series launch.
The return of the hit BBC One dance show is fast approaching with the 15 celebrities set to take to the ballroom floor officially confirmed last week.
But it was revealed on Thursday (August 21) that actor and DJ Kristian Nairn has withdrawn from the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, for medical reasons.
The full line-up for the 2025 run of the BBC One dance contest was only announced in full last week with Kristian confirmed to be joined by the likes of Love Island winner Danni Dyer, Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal and drag queen La Voix.
With just weeks to go until the series launch, with the pre-recorded opener set to air on the BBC on September 20, it was confirmed on Thursday (August 21) that Kristian would no longer be taking part.
He said in a statement: “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 added: “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.”
Kristian Nairn was due to take part in Strictly’s 2025 series(Image: PA)Kristian is best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Hodor in HBO’s global phenomenon Game of Thrones, a role that earned him a devoted international following and created one of the most iconic and emotional moments in recent TV history.
Kristian is also known to millions around the world for his role as Wee John Feeney in two series of the HBO comedy Our Flag Means Death.
As one of Ireland’s most prolific house DJs, he has played alongside industry icons including Steve Aoki, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Fatboy Slim, and Danny Howard, and has delivered high-energy sets at global superclubs such as Amnesia, Café Mambo, and Hakkasan.When he was announced to take part in Strictly 2025, the star said: This will be a huge challenge for me physically, but I’m ready to rise to it! It’s a surreal and wonderful opportunity to shed one of my left feet!”
The new celebrity joining Strictly Come Dancing will be announced on The One Show on Thursday (August 21) evening, on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 7pm.
The news of Kristian’s exit was also confirmed on Strictly’s social media. His statement was shared with the caption: “Due to medical reasons, actor and DJ Kristian Nairn has sadly withdrawn from the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing #Strictly.”
And fans were quick to respond. @shirleighshirlz said: “DEVASTATED.” @max_kitty28 commented: “Oh no, gutted. Sending love.” @sousxie wrote: “So sorry your not well and hope you recover soon and see you next year fingerscrossed..”
@aberdeenlass posted: “Oh no!! Sad to read this …fingers crossed for a quick recovery.” @katievictoria88 added: “What a shame, was looking forward to seeing you learn to dance! Hope for a quick recovery.”
Others were keen to make a request for the next series.@ poppy.morrison_ asked: “Any chance of a return in 2026 like jamie [email protected] said: “Get better soon. Back for next series hopefully??? @anniemccor added: “Hopefully they’ll hold the door open for next season.”
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