Will Young has quit Strictly Come Dancing 2016 it has been announced.
The singer has left the competition with immediate effect due to ‘personal reasons’.
In a statement released on his website, Will explained:
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 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’!
The news comes after Will caused controversy during the week 3 live show by answering back to Head Judge Len Goodman who criticised his routine with partner Karen Clifton.
The BBC has also released a short statement that reads:
Due to personal reasons, Will Young has decided to withdraw from Strictly Come Dancing. The show fully respects his decision and wishes him all the best for the future.
It’s is unclear at this time if Will will be replaced or how his departure will affect this weekend’s live show.
