BBC Strictly Come Dancing confirms plan for rest of series after Nigel Harman surprise last-minute exit weeks before final

Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed its plans for the rest of the series after Nigel Harman made a surprise last-minute exit. The actor has been forced to withdraw from the BBC One dance contest alongside professional dance partner Katya Jones through injury.

The shock news was announced just hours before Saturday night's (December 2) live show which marks the quarter-final stage of this year's competition with the final expected to take place in just two weeks time.

Casualty actor Nigel and Katya were due to perform a Charleston to Step In Time from Disney’s Mary Poppins with his partner Katya in week eleven of the BBC One dance contest - which was also the much-anticipated Musicals week.

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However, it was announced on Saturday afternoon, just hours before the live show, that due to an injury, Nigel had to withdraw from the quarter-finals and the rest of the competition altogether.

A BBC spokesperson said: "Unfortunately Nigel has sustained an injury which means he is unable to perform in tonight’s show and has had to withdraw from Strictly." The former EastEnders star suffered a rib injury, the broadcaster later said.

As they opened Saturday night's live show, host Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman welcomed the judges to the ballroom following an epic opening number from the show's group of professional dancers. They then welcomed the four remaining couples before referencing Nigel's exit.

Claudia said: "As you can see we only have four couples. Nigel has unfortunately sustained an injury which means he is unable to perform in tonight's show and has had