08. July 2025

Strictly's La Voix forced to skip Blackpool specials due to injury, granted automatic advance

Strictly Come Dancing contestant La Voix will miss this weekend’s highly anticipated Blackpool specials due to injury, the BBC has confirmed. The drag queen, paired with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, has been advised by medical professionals to rest, with the show’s team wishing her a quick recovery.

Under Strictly’s rules, La Voix and Škorjanec will automatically advance to next week’s episode, “with hopes that she’ll be fit to return to the dancefloor,” the BBC stated. La Voix expressed deep disappointment over the absence: “It’s with immense sadness that I have to pull out of this weekend’s shows. My heart breaks knowing I won’t get to dance in the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom.”

“Aljaž and I have worked so hard, and we were thrilled to share our routine with everyone,” she continued. “I’m devastated to miss joining the cast on that famous dancefloor, but my focus now is on recovering. I’ll be cheering on all the amazing couples this weekend.”

La Voix has emerged as a fan favorite this series, known for witty remarks to judges and presenters that often go viral on social media. While most Strictly episodes are filmed at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, the annual Blackpool trip is a highlight, with the show moving to the historic Tower Ballroom.

The six remaining couples will compete as planned, taking on the new instant dance challenge. Former Strictly finalists Ashley Roberts, Danny Mac, Jay McGuiness, and Layton Williams will return for the special, which will also feature live performances from Lewis Capaldi and Steps.

La Voix is the alter ego of Chris Dennis, who previously stated he wanted viewers to get to know the man behind the drag act. The character gained popularity last year as a finalist on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, and this series of Strictly has seen La Voix and Škorjanec perform jives, waltzes, and foxtrots.

A seasoned cabaret singer and entertainer, La Voix has previously appeared on ITV’s Queens For The Night and was a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent. His absence follows fellow contestant Stefan Dennis—known for his role in Neighbours—who withdrew from the series in October due to a calf injury.

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