Strictly Come Dancing star shares statement after pulling out of show last minute

Janette Manrara has apologised to fans after being forced to make a last-minute decision about whether to take to the stage in Blackpool.

The Strictly Come Dancing pro dancer and television presenter was set to return to the stage in Chicago as the musical continued its run at Blackpool's Winter Gardens on Wednesday evening (July 23).

Fans will know that Janette made her theatrical debut in the production back in March, stepping into the legendary role of Roxie Hart.

She subsequently performed the character at theatres across the nation before taking a hiatus and then making her comeback last month.

A Strictly Come Dancing star was forced to pull out of a performance at the last minute(Image: Getty)

However, posting on Instagram just hours before her scheduled performance, Janette issued a written statement confirming she would no longer be appearing as initially planned due to being poorly, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Addressing her followers, the Strictly Come Dancing favourite said: "It takes a lot for me to miss a show, so to anyone coming to Blackpool tonight, I am deeply sorry.

"I am unwell and must rest to recover quickly and be back on stage. The cast is absolutely phenomenal so the show will be as magical as it always is. I'm on the mend now and hoping to be back ASAP. Love you all, Jxxx."

She shared an update with fans on social media(Image: Janette Manrara Instagram)

Those who keep up with Janette on social media will have noticed the star was feeling poorly as she posted a video update on Tuesday evening (July 22).

She revealed to fans, following a demanding two-show day with Chicago, that she was battling an eye infection.

Her right eye was clearly troubling her, with the star unable to open it fully compared to her left.

Janette had been suffering from an eye infection(Image: Janette Manrara Instagram)

Janette informed her followers: "Just back to my flat after our second show in Blackpool and as you can see, this eye's fully functioning. This one, however.... She's got an eye infection. Look at that," as she provided them with a closer examination of her condition.

This follows Janette expressing her delight about returning to the coastal resort, which has become closely associated with Strictly through its yearly special episode.

The 41-year-old, who presents Strictly's companion programme It Takes Two, revealed to the Blackpool Gazette: "Blackpool's one of my favourite places in the UK.

The It Takes Two host was due to perform in Blackpool(Image: GETTY)

"We go there every year with Strictly and it always lands around my birthday, so I've celebrated more birthdays there than anywhere else. Normally, I'm here in November, so to explore it in July is a real treat.

"I definitely want to take the cast to the Tower for afternoon tea and a dance. I've told them they have to see the ballroom with the big organ."

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year