Nicola Adams forced to QUIT Strictly as Katya Jones tests positive for Covid-19

The BBC have released a statement

Author: Alex RossPublished 12th Nov 2020
Last updated 16th Nov 2020

Boxing star Nicola Adams has been forced to leave this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing after her professional dance partner Katya Jones tested positive for Covid-19.

The BBC said in a statement, Katya is asymptomatic and the pair are now self-isolating separately following the latest government guidelines. As part of the protocols outlined ahead of the series, this sadly means they will no longer be able to take part in the competition."

Nicola, who found herself in the bottom two last weekend against American footballer Jason Bell, said in a statement, "Hey guys! I’m absolutely devastated my Strictly journey has come to an end so soon. I had so much more to give and so many people to win this for!"

She continued, "But I just want to say a huge thank you to Katya for being the best dance partner anyone could ask for. She pushed me way out of my comfort zone and it’s been an incredible experience.

"I’m gutted to be out of the competition but in these unprecedented times and as frustrating as it is, the COVID measures in place are to keep everyone safe, and I’m doing what I can to help."

Check out the official pairings in this year's Strictly Come Dancing:

Nicola Adams and Katya Jones

Former Boxer Nicola Adams and pro dancer Katya Jones are making history on the show this year, being unveiled as the first ever same-sex pairing on Strictly!

HRVY and Janette Manrara

Singer and YouTube star HRVY has been paired with Janette Manrara.

Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse

Comedian Bill Bailey has been paired with 2019 Strictly champion Oti Mabuse.

Maisie Smith and Gorka Márquez

EastEnders actress Maisie Smith will dance alongside popular pro Gorka Márquez.

Jacqui Smith and Anton Du Beke

Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has been paired with Strictly legend Anton Du Beke.

Clara Amfo and Aljaž Škorjanec

Radio and TV presenter Clara Amfo will dance alongside Aljaž Škorjanec.

Caroline Quentin and Johannes Radebe

Actress Caroline Quentin has been paired alongside Johannes Radebe.

Max George and Dianne Buswell

The Wanted singer Max George has been paired with Strictly 2018 finalist Dianne Buswell.

Ranvir Singh and Giovanni Pernice

Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh will dance alongside Strictly favourite Giovanni Pernice.

JJ Chalmers and Amy Dowden

TV presenter and Invictus Games medallist JJ Chalmers will be paired with pro dancer Amy Dowden.

Jason Bell and Luba Mushtuk

Former American footballer Jason Bell will be under guidance from pro dancer Luba Mushtuk.

Jamie Laing and Karen Hauer

Following his injury last year, Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing will work alongside Karen Hauer in the 2020 series.

Although Nicola's departure from the show seems harsh, the BBC have stated that all protocols have been followed in guidelines they outlined at the beginning of the 2020 series.

Nicola and Katya made history on the show this year by becoming the first ever same-sex couple to take part in the series.

In the first three weeks of their involvement in the show, Nicola and Katya performed a Quickstep, a Jive and a Couple's Choice.

Fans of the pair were sad to hear of the news, one commented, 'gutted for them 😢 wishing katya a speedy recovery 💗', with another writing, 'so gutted :( wish katya a speedy recovery 💗'. (sic)

A third then added, 'Absolutely gutted but hope katya has a speedy recovery xx'. (sic)

Strictly Come Dancing continues every Saturday night.

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