KRISTIAN Nairn has spoken out about his decision to quit Strictly Come Dancing.
The Game of Thrones star, famed for playing monotonal friendly aide Hodor, was forced to pull out of the show due to injury.
His replacement will be confirmed tonight on The One Show – but in the meantime the actor has taken to social media to share his thoughts on what went down.
Speaking to the camera from his home, Kristian revealed he had prepared a written statement, joking it felt “like a wedding speech” but he wanted to be honest about what was going on.
“I’ve been given a wonderful opportunity to become part of the Strictly Come Dancing family, as you may know, but sadly I’m having to withdraw from this year’s show,” he said.
Going into more detail, Kristian noted that he had been dealing with “a high level of stress and a little bit of grief”.
“I’ve always been my mother’s son and I’ve always powered through things like this in the past and any other time in my life,” he added.
“I think I’ve got a pretty healthy attitude to stuff like this… I thought I did at least. But for the first time it’s manifested physically and it’s caused a spike in my vitals, in sort of an area of concern.”
When the spike materialised, Kristian sought medical advice, and was recommended that he withdraw from the show while it was looked after.
“I’m a big guy, always have been ever since I’ve set foot on this earth,” he said. “I take my health very seriously and I do see my doctor all the time.
“I was checked for the show two weeks before and everything was fine, so he was happy for me to take part.”
Kristian assured fans he was “ok, under treatment and his doctor isn’t concerned” but it will take two-or-three weeks to get him back to normal.
Sadly, this means withdrawing from Strictly, which is known for its gruelling and face-paced routines.
“I’m not going to have time for the show – I’m not going to have time for the training,” he said.
“I also don’t want to leave them, you and my other contestants hanging, that’s not really fair.”
Kristina admitted he was “gutted” to be out saying he spent months preparing and “looking forward to taking part”.
But he thanked Strictly bosses for their “understanding” and support.
“So, let’s see what happens when I get sorted. I’m gonna be taking it easy for now and I’ll be able to return to work very shortly,” he continued.
“I’m so excited for this but not only for myself but for the people the amazing people from my home of Northern Ireland.
“It’s always been my honor to in some way and my weird way to Just to be, I’m just to show that I’m from Northern Ireland.
“I’m very proud and I’m sorry I’ve let you down in any way. But I’ll continue to do my best.”
