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Judi Love pulls out of Strictly Come Dancing for health-related reasons

Photo credit: Eamonn McCormack - Getty Images
Photo credit: Eamonn McCormack - Getty Images

Comedian and panelist, Judi Love, has had to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing this week after testing positive for COVID-19. Her partner, Graziano Di Prima, will also miss this weekend's episode.

Speaking about the news, a Strictly spokesperson said: “Judi Love has tested positive for COVID-19 and is now self-isolating following the latest government guidelines.

"While Judi and Graziano will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, they will return the following week."

Judi herself also tweeted and said she was very disappointed to not be taking part, but that she hopes – all being well – to return next weekend.

"Hey my lovelies it’s with great disappointment that I will not be performing this weekend @bbcstrictly due to testing positive with COVID-19. Hoping to make a speedy recovery & dance for you next weekend. Stay safe & thank you for your well wishes."

Watch: Strictly's Greg Wise leaves show after losing danceoff against Judi Love

Judi is not the first contestant on this year's season to have to miss a performance – McFly's Tom Fletcher and his dance partner, Amy Dowden, encountered a similar situation in week two, but luckily were able to rejoin the competition in week three.

Last week, rugby player Ugo Monye and his partner, Oti Mabuse, also had to pause their run on due to Ugo's back injury (but the pair will return this weekend).

Graziano also posted on social media about not partaking in the competition this week, sharing a photo of himself and Judi along with a caption vowing to come back stronger than ever.

"As you may have seen Judi has tested positive. So sorry to miss the show this week," he wrote. "Sending so much love to my queen @1judilove!! We will come back next week stronger than ever!! #teamjudiano @bbcstrictly."

Cases of coronavirus in the UK are increasing again, with 51, 484 cases recorded on 21 October – it is the first time in three months that case rates have surpassed the 50,000 mark. The Prime Minister Boris Johnson is now urging those eligible to come forward to receive a vaccine 'booster' jab.

"The most important thing people can do is get that booster jab... when you get the call, get the jab," the PM has urged.

Here's sending Judi our love and wishing her a fast and full recovery.

Watch: Who is Strictly's Judi Love?

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