Strictly Come Dancing bosses have huge fears over Nick Knowles injury

Nick Knowles has been forced out of tonight's Strictly Come Dancing live show after injuring his knee - with bosses now fearing he could be forced to quit the series for good

BBC chiefs are reportedly concerned that Nick Knowles' stint on Strictly might be cut short following a knee injury that sidelined the DIY SOS presenter from tonight's performance.

The 61 year old has pledged to return to the dance floor next week, yet an insider acknowledged that the departure of one of the show's most beloved stars was a "real possibility".

Having just bounced back from a shoulder injury to perform last week, Knowles is now set for an MRI scan after sustaining a knee injury during practice. He and his dance partner Luba Mushtuk have been granted a bye for this week.

READ MORE: 'Kids are shoplifting for their parents' - poverty and crime in Midlands through a child's eyes

Get the latest Birmingham Live breaking news on WhatsApp

A source revealed: "The fact he is getting scans shows just how serious this is. There is only so much time they can give him to recover. Nick is a popular guy and losing him so early in the competition would be a blow to the show's ratings too. It doesn't look great at the moment so everyone is just hoping the outlook is better after the weekend."

This latest hiccup is unwelcome news for BBC executives, who were keen to progress with this year's series following the publication of a report into bullying claims from the previous season, reports the Mirror.

Actress Amanda Abbington's allegations of verbal abuse against Giovanni Pernice were substantiated, although the professional dancer was exonerated of any physical misconduct. The insider added: "They can't afford to lose anyone else when they're trying to kickstart the series after the report was published this week. They need to move on with some more positive news."

TV host Nick, hailing from Southall, West London, remained upbeat despite his setback, commenting: "Even if we have to glitter up the crutches, I am determined to get back and dance for you next week."

Dance partner Luba expressed similar sentiments, adding: "We really, really hope that the knee will be better for next week and we'll be back on the dance floor."

Earlier, he used X and Instagram to announce through a re-shared Strictly update about his condition, stating: "Unfortunately, Nick Knowles sustained an injury during rehearsals and as a result, will not dance this weekend. As per the rules of the competition, Nick and Luba will receive a bye through to next week when he is hopefully able to dance again. Everyone at Strictly Come Dancing wishes Nick a speedy recovery."

After the news of his absence broke, Nick opened up on X, saying: "I'm absolutely gutted and feeling very very sad," accompanied by a sad face emoji.

Nick's fans were quick to offer support on social media, with one posting on X: "Hope you're on the mend soon. What a shame you're missing out on movie week."

A different user added their message: "So sorry to hear that! I hope you are ok! #Strictly."

Another well-wisher chimed in with encouragement: "Take Care Lovely, See you back next week."

Just moments before the announcement that he'd be out of this weekend's contest, Nick had expressed optimism about securing enough points to advance to the following week. Engaging with supporters on a platform X, one fan sent their best wishes, commenting: "Let's hope you get through over the weekend fingers crossed."

In response, Nick echoed the sentiment by posting a series of fingers crossed emojis.

They had planned to perform a Charleston to 'Rain on the Roof' from 'Paddington 2' for tonights movie-theme event.