Delta Goodrem Misses Strictly Due to Rib Injury

Pop star Delta Goodrem has been forced to pull out of this weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing live show due to a rib injury, leaving her 'absolutely gutted' ^[1]. The 41-year-old, who is partnered with professional dancer Kai Widdrington, had just topped the leaderboard with a perfect score of 33 for her salsa performance set to a mashup of Incognito’s 'Always There' and Chaka Khan’s 'Ain’t Nobody' ^[3].

In a statement shared via It Takes Two, Goodrem said she was 'heartbroken' to miss the performance, especially after the high of Saturday night’s success ^[4]. She expressed her love for the show, stating she’s been 'loving every second' of the experience and vowed to focus on recovery with hopes of returning soon ^[1].

A Strictly spokesperson confirmed that doctors have advised her to rest, meaning she and Widdrington will receive a bye into next week’s episode ^[3]. The show’s rules allow for such a pause, with the hope of a return in the following week ^[4].

Goodrem, who rose to fame on Australian soap Neighbours and later achieved global success with hits like 'Innocent Eyes', has been widely supported by co-stars and fans alike. Fellow dancers Nancy Xu and Lauren Oakley sent messages of encouragement, while fans flooded social media with well-wishes and concern ^[1]. Many expressed shock, with some fearing she might be forced to withdraw from the entire series ^[3].

The singer had previously spoken about her excitement at joining the ballroom floor, calling it a dream come true after performing on stages worldwide ^[1]. Her performance had drawn praise from judges, with Anton Du Beke saying she was 'setting a very high bar' and Craig Revel Horwood calling it 'amazing' ^[3].