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Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn has pulled out of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing “due to unexpected medical reasons”, just days after the line-up was announced.<\/p>\n
Nairn, 49, is best known for playing Hodor \u2013 the guileless servant of House Stark – in HBO’s fantasy drama.<\/p>\n
He also portrayed Wee John Feeney in the US TV period comedy drama Our Flag Means Death, and is a house music DJ.<\/p>\n
“With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons,” Nairn said in a statement.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
“I was truly looking forward to the journey, and I’m deeply sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor.<\/p>\n
“Thank you all for your support, and I will be back on my feet very soon, in every sense. Love to all, Kristian.”<\/p>\n
Last week, the 6ft 10in Northern Irishman became the 15th and final contestant to be unveiled for this year’s Strictly.<\/p>\n
When his participation was announced last Friday, he said taking part in the dance contest would be “a huge challenge for me physically, but I’m ready to rise to it.”<\/p>\n
Referencing his withdrawal, the show’s ecedutive producer Sarah James said: “We’ve absolutely loved getting to know Kristian in this short time, and he has all the makings of a brilliant Strictly Come Dancing contestant.<\/p>\n
“We’re incredibly sorry to lose him from this year’s series and we all wish him a speedy recovery.”<\/p>\n
His replacement will be revealed on The One Show on BBC One from 19:00 BST on Thursday.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n