Strictly’s Kelvin Fletcher says it’s a ‘dream come true’ to star on the show after he replaces injured Jamie Laing
STRICTLY Come Dancing's Kelvin Fletcher has said it is a "dream come true" to star in the show as he replaces injured Jamie Laing.
Earlier today, the BBC One dance series confirmed that the ex Emmerdale star was joining the line-up, as previously reported by The Sun Online.
Taking to his Instagram Story after the news broke, 35-year-old Kelvin said: "Hey guys, just thought I'd say how just absolutely I'm overwhelmed by the response I've been receiving so far. I can't believe it, it's a dream come true.
"Those who know me, after a few beers, I love music and I love to dance, but that doesn't mean I'll be any good!
"Once you put choreography and a few dance moves, who knows?"
Kelvin went on to acknowledge that he was joining the show under "bittersweet" circumstances as he expressed his sympathy for Made In Chelsea star Jamie.
He shared: "I can't help but feel for him.
"Jamie, if you're watching this, I wish you all the best with your recovery. I'm sorry it's in these circumstances."
The actor will be teaming up with professional dancer Oti Mabuse for the show, with The Greatest Dancer mentor tweeting after the news was announced: "When one door closes another opens... @kelvin_fletcher welcome to @bbcstrictly.
"Let’s do this, buddy - it’s going to be one fun journey."
Kelvin - who played Andy Sugden in Emmerdale from 1996 to 2016 - previously told of his "surreal" week after Strictly bosses asked him to step in at the last minute.
Jamie, 30, threw the show into chaos when he was forced to pull out of the competition with a foot injury just two days before last night's pre-recorded launch show.
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The TV favourite has been left on crutches after he injured his right foot when he landed awkwardly during a group routine.
He confessed that he was "absolutely devastated" to leave the competition, wishing the rest of the celebs luck with the series.
The Sun Online revealed Kelvin was in talks to replace Jamie on Friday and has already spent time rehearsing with the team.
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