A PAINFUL rib injury has forced Delta Goodrem to pull out of this week’s Strictly, leaving her future on the BBC show hanging in the balance.

The injury occurred during training last week but the 41-year-old Australian singer battled through Saturday night’s programme with dance partner , 31.

Delta Goodrem and Kai Widdrington perform on Strictly Come Dancing.
Delta and Kai topped the leaderboard for the second week in a row on Saturday’s show Credit: PA
Delta Goodrem and Kai Widdrington laughing during a rehearsal.
Delta was forced to make two hospital visits after struggling to sleep because of pain, with Strictly bosses now allowing her to miss this week’s show while medics assess her recovery Credit: Eroteme

They topped the leaderboard for the second week in a row but hours later she was struggling to because of the pain and went to A&E for treatment.

She was back in hospital yesterday and has now been given while medics assess her recovery.

“The former actress is in a race to be fit to return the following week because rules state each contestant is allowed only one free pass before being obliged to withdraw.

A source told The Sun: “Delta has been pushing herself as far as possible to impress Strictly viewers.

Delta Goodrem and her husband Matthew standing outdoors with a city view in the background.
A source revealed Delta was back at home being looked after by her husband, musician Matt Copley, above Credit: Instagram
Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Kai and Delta won’t perform next Saturday night Credit: PA
Make-A-Wish UK Ball - A Night Of Wishes
BBC rules state each contestant is allowed only one free pass before being obliged to withdraw Credit: Getty

“A small injury at the start of last week has quickly deteriorated.

“On Saturday night, despite putting on a brave face and smiling, she was in absolute agony.

“Filming didn’t wrap until late Saturday night and she was exhausted. The plan was to go home and get some rest but she could hardly sleep.

“On Sunday morning she was raced to A&E and then spent most of Monday also at the hospital.” The source said Delta was back at home being looked after by her .

A television screen displays a message about Delta Goodrem's injury and upcoming absence from Strictly Come Dancing, while presenter Zoe Ball stands beside it.
It Takes Two host Ellie Taylor broke the news to fans Credit: BBC TWO
Delta Goodrem and Kai Widdrington perform on Strictly Come Dancing.
Delta performed a Salsa on Saturday night Credit: PA

The insider added: “Delta is heartbroken. The severity of the situation isn’t lost on her.

“The clock is ticking and all she can do is rest and pray things work out.”

Delta said: “I’m gutted that a rib injury means I won’t be able to dance on Strictly this week.

“I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking — especially after the high of Saturday night.

Kai Widdrington and Delta Goodrem perform a routine on Strictly Come Dancing.
The 41-year-old has been named as a hot favourite Credit: PA
Delta Goodrem wearing a silver sequin dress in front of a star-patterned background.
Delta is enjoying a comeback year after representing Australia at the Eurovision Credit: Olivia West

“I can not tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’ll be back on that dancefloor very soon.

“Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support.

“It’s so appreciated. I’ll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week.”

Strictly said in a statement: “Due to injury, Delta has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance on this weekend’s . In line with the rules, Delta and Kai will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again.”