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Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special began filming today at Elstree Studios and is set to see a star-studded line-up compete to become the Christmas champion. However, the BBC production has been dealt a huge blow as Sheridan Smith has reportedly pulled out just hours before filming.
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Sheridan Smith, 40, was meant to star alongside Take That singer Gary Barlow, 50, as they performed their new festive single How Christmas is Supposed to Be.
However, before filming began on Tuesday morning, the episode is reported to have been restructured as news of Sheridan's absence came to light.
A production source said: "The Beeb were given notice quite late in the day that Sheridan wouldn't be able to film on Tuesday after all.
"So, it'll just be Gary performing on his own. They're gutted," they told The Sun.
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The BBC has declined to comment on this at this time.
A representative for Smith also declined to comment when contacted by Express.co.uk.
The BBC had previously announced Sheridan and Gary would be one of two "special" performances for the Christmas Day episode.
The reasons for Smith's supposed withdrawal haven't been disclosed but it comes just one week after the star's car was involved in a crash.
Taking to the Strictly Christmas dancefloor this year is TV and radio presenter Moira Stewart and singer Anne-Marie.
Former Bake Off presenter Mel Giedroyc, Maître d’hôtel Fred Sirieix and expert furniture restorer Jay Blades will also be showing off their skills.