La Voix to miss Strictly Blackpool specials due to injury

La Voix's absence comes after Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis was forced to pull out of the series in October with a calf injury

Strictly Come Dancing contestant La Voix is to miss this weekend's Blackpool specials due to injury, the BBC has confirmed.

A Strictly spokesman said the drag queen had been "advised by doctors to rest", adding that everybody on the show wished the star "a speedy recovery".

In line with the rules of the show, La Voix and professional dance partner Aljaž Škorjanec will receive a pass through to next week, "when it is hoped they will be able to dance again", the BBC said.

La Voix said it was "with immense sadness that I have to withdraw". Referring to the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, the drag queen added: "My heart truly breaks knowing I won't be dancing in such an iconic venue."

"Aljaž and I have worked incredibly hard, and we were so excited to share our routine with everyone," the statement continued.

"I am devastated not to be joining the rest of the cast on that famous dancefloor, but my focus now is on recovery. I'll be cheering on all the amazing couples this weekend."

La Voix has been one of the break-out stars of this series of Strictly, often making witty remarks to the judges or presenters which go viral on social media.

While regular episodes of the show are filmed at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, Strictly will continue this weekend with its annual trip up north to Blackpool, seen as an annual series highlight.

The six other remaining couples will compete, and also take on the new instant dance challenge.

Former Strictly finalists Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness and Layton Williams will also return for the special, which will see live performances from Lewis Capaldi and Steps.

La Voix, who will miss out, is the alter ego of Chris Dennis, who said ahead of the series that he wanted viewers to get to know the man behind the drag act.

His character became a fan favourite last year while finishing as a finalist on RuPaul's Drag Race UK.

In recent weeks, Strictly viewers have seen La Voix and her partner jive, waltz and foxtrot around the Strictly dancefloor.

The cabaret singer and entertainer has previously appeared on ITV's Queens For The Night and been a semi-finalist on Britain's Got Talent.