Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn has posted an emotional video explaining his departure from Strictly Come Dancing, declaring he refuses to engage in typical public relations spin.
The 49-year-old DJ and performer shared candid footage on social media, stating: "I am not going to beat around the bush with this, this is real talk. I am not doing the PR thing. I hate that."
In the video, Mr Nairn disclosed he has been managing significant stress levels and experiencing grief.
He acknowledged that whilst he had previously managed to push through such challenges, the pressure has now affected him physically for the first time.
Kristian Nairn opened up about his reasons for withdrawing from BBC Strictly
|"For the first time it's manifested physically. And it's caused a spike in my vitals. It's entered an area of concern," he revealed.
The actor withdrew from the BBC dancing competition after just one week of rehearsals, having been announced as the final celebrity contestant only days earlier.
In an official statement released on Thursday, Nairn expressed his disappointment about leaving the programme.
"With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons," he stated.
He apologised to fans who had anticipated watching him compete and assured them he would recover soon.
BBC Studios Executive Producer Sarah James responded with regret about losing Nairn from the series.
She praised his potential as a contestant and wished him a swift recovery. The broadcaster announced that a replacement celebrity would be revealed on The One Show.
Nairn emphasised his commitment to monitoring his health, explaining he undergoes regular medical check-ups due to his size.
He confirmed doctors had cleared him for participation just two weeks before the show began, with all tests showing normal results.
The performer reassured fans about his current condition, stating he's already receiving treatment and his physician isn't worried.
He anticipates returning to full health within two to three weeks, though this timeframe makes continuing with Strictly impossible.
"I also don't want to leave them, you and the other contestants hanging. It's not really fair. I'm gutted to say the least," he explained.
Despite his disappointment, Nairn expressed enthusiasm for watching his fellow competitors and praised the cast he'd briefly worked alongside.
Kristian Nairn was set to join this year's BBC Strictly
|BBC
The actor's current struggles echo a difficult period from 2019 when his mother faced a life-threatening health emergency.
Nairn cancelled performances at that time after his mother was hospitalised, sharing on Instagram: "This week has been the most personally challenging and painful weeks of my life.
"My wonderful mum was rushed to hospital on Monday, and is still fighting for her life."
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Kristian Nairn opened up about withdrawing from BBC Strictly with a candid video
|GETTY
He explained his decision to prioritise family, writing: "I hate letting my fans down, but I've had to take the decision to cancel my gigs and appearances for the next few weeks so I can be by my mums side."
The performer acknowledged the support he received during that crisis and emphasised his belief that "Family comes first."