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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Rose Hill

Strictly's Oti Mabuse confirms she will have partner this year after Jamie Laing's shock exit

Oti Mabuse has confirmed that she will have a celebrity on this year's Strictly Come Dancing after Jamie Laing was forced to quit the show due to a nasty injury.

Fans were left fearing the worst after the announcement - that fan favourite Oti wouldn't be in a couple this year.

Thankfully, Oti has revealed that she will be paired up with Jamie's replacement, Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher.

Sharing a tweet announcing the news that Kelvin would be joining the show, Oti wrote: "When one door closes another opens... @kelvin_fletcher welcome to @bbcstrictly let’s do this buddy it’s going to be one fun journey."

Jamie appeared on last night's launch show, which was filmed a week ago, despite having since confirmed that he would no longer be taking part.

Oti Mabuse will have a celebrity partner this year (David Fisher/REX)
She will be paired with Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher (PA)

He was forced to pull out by doctors after he damaged a tendon in his right foot by awkwardly landing during the dance.

Medical professionals told him he wouldn't be able to meet the minimum weekly requirement of 12 hours of training.

Yesterday, viewers watched as Jamie was coupled with Oti - leaving them worried that she would no longer be taking part in this year's show too.

(Twitter)

However Mirror Online confirmed last week that there would be a celebrity replacement, for the first time in the show's 15-year history.

Speaking as news of his quitting broke, Jamie said: "I'm absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

Jamie had to pull out of the competition this year (BBC/Kieron McCarron)

"I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest."

The 30-year-old reality star was spotted hobbling around London on crutches days after the filming, being accompanied by his girlfriend Sophie Haboo.

*Strictly Come Dancing returns later this month on BBC One

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