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Strictly Come Dancing reveal who will replace Jamie Laing on the show this year

Strictly have officially announced who will be replacing Jamie Laing on the show, following his shock departure - and the honour goes to Emmerdale's Kelvin Fletcher.

The soap star will be joining this year’s cast, after Jamie Laing’s shock departure from the show was confirmed last Thursday.

The news was announced on social media, not long after the pre-recorded first episode of the show aired.

The tweet read: ‘NEWS!: We are pleased to announce that actor Kelvin Fletcher will be joining #Strictly 2019, replacing Jamie Laing on the show.’

Speaking about joining the cast of the popular competition, Kelvin said: “Is this really happening?! It’s been the most surreal week of my life! I’m a massive fan of Strictly so it’s incredible.”

The actor also mentioned Jamie, who sadly had to quite due to an injury.

“I’m so happy that I can be a part of it, but at the same time it’s quite bittersweet!”, he added.

“I’m coming in on the back of Jamie’s injury – I keep thinking about him! I can’t imagine going through all this excitement and then having to pull out. My thoughts are with him – he seems like a fantastic guy and I hope he’s doing OK.”

Made in Chelsea’s Jamie confirmed that he would be leaving the show, with a statement saying: “I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

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

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Strictly Come Dancing’s Executive Producer, Sarah James, said: “We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm. We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.”

Strictly fans can see Kelvin’s moves on the first live show on September 21, when he will be dacing with Oti Mabuse.

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