"I leave with joy in my heart," 'Anything Is Possible' singer says
Strictly Come Dancing is being rocked by another controversy - as Will Young stunningly quits the series.
The BBC confirmed on Tuesday (October 11) that Will has chosen to leave for "personal reasons", mere days away Strictly's return to the ballroom for Week 4 on Saturday (October 15).
In his own statement, Will Young said: "To be a part of Strictly has been a long time ambition of mine. As a performer, a viewer, and a fan of the show, to dance as a contestant was an experience I always hoped for.
"I have made some great friends, and am in awe of their performances week in, week out. I have found a creative partnership with Karen [Clifton] that has been the most wonderful thing to experience.
"I will be eternally grateful to her for her direction, talent and guiding me through three wonderful dances that I will be able to show my grandkids in years to come.
"Unfortunately, I am leaving the show for personal reasons. I leave with joy in my heart that I have been able to take part in one of the most loved shows on British television.
"I am so grateful to everyone who works on Strictly from the lighting designer to catering to the production team. Strictly truly is the most unique family and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.
"And finally thank you to the BBC for supporting me throughout my journey. I wish my compatriots so much luck, and although I am back to being a viewer again, I'm certainly going to 'keeeep dancing'!"
A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing has also confirmed that the show will not be replacing Will Young with another celebrity.
"The series will continue as planned, with elimination every week until the Grand Final. There is not and never has been a backup celebrity on standby," a Strictly rep told us.
Young had earned solid marks from the Strictly judges all through the competition - even when he pulled a muscle while jiving to 'Rock Around the Clock' two weeks ago.
Despite that potentially game-ending injury, Will and professional partner Karen Clifton persevered and earned raves for their energetic salsa routine set to 'Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)' during Movies Week.
Four weeks into Strictly Come Dancing's current series and there has been plenty of controversy. Most recently, many angry fans complained of racial bias when Melvin Odoom and Tameka Empson became the first two contestants eliminated this series.
Regardless of Will Young's shocking departure, Strictly Come Dancing continues this weekend on BBC One.
Posted: Tue Oct 11, 2016 8:39 pm