Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn has opened up about the “high level of stress” and grief that forced his withdrawal from Strictly Come Dancing, just days after being announced as the final celebrity contestant.
The 49-year-old Northern Irish actor, best known for playing the beloved character Hodor in HBO’s fantasy epic, posted an emotional video on Instagram on Thursday, declaring he would not engage in “typical public relations spin” about his departure from the BBC dancing competition.
“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,” Nairn stated in the candid footage that has resonated with fans across social media.
Physical Manifestation of Mental Health Struggles
In his heartfelt video message, the six-foot-ten actor revealed he had been managing significant stress levels and experiencing grief. For the first time in his life, these mental health challenges had manifested physically, creating what he described as “an area of concern” in his vital signs.
“Like so many people at the minute, I’ve been dealing with a high level of stress and a little bit of grief, if I’m going to be really real,” Nairn explained. “I’ve always been my mother’s son and I’ve always powered through things like this in the past.”
The DJ and performer emphasised that whilst he had previously managed to push through such challenges, this time was different. “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.
Swift Medical Response and Recovery Timeline
Despite the setback, Nairn reassured his followers that he was already receiving treatment and his physician wasn’t worried about his long-term health. The actor, who takes his health seriously due to his size, confirmed he undergoes regular medical check-ups and had been cleared for participation just two weeks before the show began.
I’m already receiving treatment and my physician isn’t worried,” he stated, anticipating a return to full health within two to three weeks. However, this timeframe made continuing with Strictly impossible.
Sarah James, Executive Producer at BBC Studios, responded with regret about losing Nairn from the series. “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,” she said. “We’re incredibly sorry to lose him from this year’s series and we all wish him a speedy recovery.”
Emmerdale Star Lewis Cope Named as Replacement
Within hours of Nairn’s withdrawal announcement, the BBC confirmed that former Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope would take his place in the 2025 series. The 30-year-old actor, who played Nicky Milligan in the ITV soap from December 2022 to July 2024, was revealed as the replacement during Thursday evening’s episode of The One Show.
Cope, who was walking down Oxford Street when he received the surprise call on Monday, expressed his excitement about joining the competition. “I’m so excited to be swapping the Dales for the dance floor and joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve always been a fan of the show and cannot wait to get started!” he said.
The Hartlepool-born actor brings considerable performance experience to the show, having made his stage debut at age 11 as Michael in Billy Elliot: The Musical. His television credits include appearances in Vera, Mrs Sidhu Investigates, and Hetty Feather.
Echoes of Past Family Health Crisis
Nairn’s current struggles echo a difficult period from 2019 when his mother faced a life-threatening health emergency. At that time, the actor cancelled performances 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,” he had written, explaining his decision to prioritise family. The performer acknowledged the support he received during that crisis and emphasised his belief that “Family comes first.”
Mental Health Awareness Message
In his withdrawal video, Nairn took the opportunity to address mental health awareness, urging his followers to take care of themselves during what he described as “strange, crazy times.
“Without being preachy, please look after yourself. Don’t ignore what’s going on inside your head,” he advised. “This is something I haven’t dealt with before, so this has really come as a surprise for me. I always thought I had this.”
The actor asked people not to worry about him, adding confidently: “I’ve totally got this.”
Support from Strictly Family
Nairn emphasised that he had been “100% supported” by producers and others on the show throughout this difficult decision. His disappointment about leaving was palpable as he explained: “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.”
Despite his withdrawal, Nairn expressed enthusiasm for watching his fellow competitors and praised the cast he’d briefly worked alongside during the single week of rehearsals he managed to complete.
Looking Ahead to Series 23
The 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing is set to begin on Saturday, 20 September, featuring 15 celebrities including Love Island winner Dani Dyer, former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, actress Alex Kingston, and Drag Race UK finalist La Voix.
Lewis Cope joins an eclectic line-up that also includes Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison, former England rugby player Chris Robshaw, and Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. The show will return with judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and head judge Shirley Ballas.
When asked about joining the series late, Cope reflected: “If anything, it’s probably helped me because I haven’t really had time to think about it or anything, so the excitement has just taken over and I’m all in.”
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