Will Emily Atack replace Jamie Laing on Strictly Come Dancing 2019?

Laing has filmed scenes for the launch episode but will not appear in the competition going forward 
Soap & Glory Peach Please Launch Party, London, 25th October 2022
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Tobi Akingbade9 September 2019

Emily Atack has been named among the bookies' favourites to replace Jamie Laing on Strictly Come Dancing following an injury that forced him to pull out of the show.

The BBC announced yesterday that the Made in Chelsea star will no longer compete after he injured his leg while filming the launch show.

Former I’m a Celebrity contestant Atack, who won the hearts of the nation in 2018, is now tipped as the top option to take his place.

Bookmakers Betfair have placed odds at the former Inbetweeners actress stepping in at 5/1.

Star power: Could Atack win the nation's heart once again?
PA

She is tied in first place with Scarlett Moffatt, who won I'm A Celebrity in 2016 and has gone on to present spin-off show Extra Camp.

Betfair Spokesperson Katie Baylis said: “Jamie Laing will clearly be devastated at missing out on the chance to dance in front of millions of viewers every weekend, but fans of the show are now desperately trying to work out who his replacement will be

She added: "Former I’m a Celeb stars Emily Atack and Scarlett Moffatt are favoured at 5/1 to step into the ball room, with Vogue Williams at 8/1. We, along with the Strictly public, are awaiting the news with great anticipation.”

Also of interest at 5/1 is Scarlett Moffatt and Dancing With The Stars' Vogue William at 8/1

Strictly Come Dancing 2019 Launch - In pictures

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Addressing his departure from show in an Instagram video shared shortly after the official announcement, Laing said: "Because of my injury, I won't be competing in Strictly this year which is incredibly devastating and very upsetting.

"But these things happen in life and when these things happen you have to be positive and push forward."

BBC confirmed the news in a statement and also clarified that Laing will still feature in this Saturday’s launch show, which has already been filmed.

Executive producer Sarah James added: "We are so sad that Jamie won't be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

The tweet which accompanied the news added: "We're going to miss you @JamieLaing_UK."

The BBC has stated that further information will be released in due course.

Strictly Come Dancing 2019

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