Delta Goodrem has withdrawn from this week’s edition of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing due to a painful rib injury sustained during rehearsals last week. The 41-year-old Australian singer and former Neighbours actress performed on Saturday night alongside her dance partner Kai Widdrington, with the duo topping the leaderboard for the second consecutive week. However, following the show, Goodrem experienced severe discomfort that led to urgent medical attention.

According to sources, Goodrem was struggling to sleep due to the pain and was taken to an emergency department on Sunday morning. She subsequently spent much of Monday receiving further treatment and was later granted permission by Strictly producers to miss this week’s live show so her recovery can be monitored. The singer is currently being supported at home by her husband, musician Matt Copley.

A source close to the production described the situation as serious, noting that a minor injury earlier in the week had rapidly worsened. Despite maintaining a positive demeanor during Saturday’s performance, Goodrem was reportedly in significant pain by the end of filming. The source added that she is devastated by the setback and aware of the limited time for recovery, as Strictly rules allow each contestant only one absence before potential disqualification.

In a statement, Goodrem expressed disappointment at missing the upcoming episode but affirmed her affection for the show. “I’m gutted that a rib injury means I won’t be able to dance on Strictly this week,” she said. “I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking—especially after the high of Saturday night. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’ll be back on that dancefloor very soon.” She also thanked fans for their support and said she would be cheering on the contestants from the sidelines.

Strictly Come Dancing issued a statement confirming that due to medical advice, Goodrem will not participate this weekend but that she and Widdrington will receive a bye to advance to the following week’s show, in accordance with the competition’s rules. The producers expressed hope that she will be fit to return to the dance floor next week.