Strictly's Kai Widdrington Reports 'Baby Steps' in Training Return with Injured Partner Delta Goodrem

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Kai Widdrington has stated that his return to training with his celebrity partner, Delta Goodrem, involves "baby steps" following her recent rib injury. Goodrem, 41, was advised by doctors to rest and received a pass to the next round of the competition after the injury prevented her from training the previous week.

Widdrington, 31, shared that both he and Goodrem are mindful of the injury as they resume their dance training. He lauded her "professional attitude," noting that she is applying herself diligently in rehearsals. "It's my job to make sure the routine is good but we are aware of [the injury]," Widdrington said. "But we are moving forward, dancing as normal but we are aware as we have to give a good performance this week."

Goodrem, an Australian singer, managed to perform a Salsa during the third week of the competition, maintaining her position at the top of the leaderboard for a second consecutive week. However, she was taken to the hospital hours after the live broadcast due to pain that affected her sleep. Doctors mandated rest and instructed her to sleep upright to facilitate her recovery.

Strictly Come Dancing's rules allow contestants one "free pass" before they are required to withdraw from the competition. During the previous Saturday night show, hosts Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe addressed Goodrem's absence. Willis commented on the "shame" of her missing Icon's Week and reminded viewers of the rules permitting her return. Radebe sent well wishes to Goodrem, who he noted was watching from home.

In addition to discussing his partnership, Widdrington also commented on the show's new hosting team, which includes Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe, who took over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Widdrington praised the trio for their "warm" personalities and how well they are integrating into their roles. He described them as "lovely to be around" both on and off camera, highlighting their efforts to make celebrities, particularly those who are nervous, feel at home.

Strictly confirmed Goodrem's return to rehearsals via an Instagram post on Monday, featuring a selfie of her and Widdrington. The post stated, "Following her bye last week due to injury, we’re delighted to confirm Delta has been given the all clear to dance again this weekend. She’ll return to the ballroom on Saturday night."

Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey was voted off the show on Sunday night.