Overview

• Nairn withdrew about a week into rehearsals, just days after his casting was announced for the 2025 series.
• He said recent stress and grief manifested physically with a spike in his vitals, adding he is under treatment and expects to feel normal within two to three weeks.
• Strictly executive producer Sarah James expressed regret at his departure and wished him a speedy recovery.
• The BBC unveiled Cope as the replacement on The One Show, with the actor saying he learned of the role earlier in the week and is eager to start.
• Production continues ahead of the 20 September premiere on BBC One and iPlayer.