Injuries Force Nancy O'Dell, Jewel Out of Dancing
Dancing with the Stars, Nancy O'Dell, Jewel
Nancy O'Dell and Jewel have withdrawn from Dancing with the Stars due to injury, less than a week away from the Season 8 premiere on Monday.
Jewel, who blogged about tendonitis in her knees last week, has sustained a fractured tibia in both legs, while O'Dell has suffered a torn meniscus and requires surgery. O'Dell told TVGuide.com Wednesday she twisted her right knee while rehearsing the salsa and exacerbated it days later doing the waltz.
"Beyond disappointment doesn't even being to describe how I feel about not being able to continue on Dancing with the Stars," O'Dell said in a statement. "It has been one of my favorite shows since Season One! But I have torn the meniscus in my knee in two places, which requires surgery. Dancing with the Stars was a great experience. I'll miss working with my partner, Tony Dovolani, and all the other wonderful people on the amazing production that is Dancing with the Stars."
While "devastated" she cannot continue with the show, Jewel said she will be around this season to cheer on her husband, rodeo star Ty Murray, and his partner, Chelsie Hightower. "I hope to be back on the show in the future," she said.
Jewel was partnered with Dancing newbie Dmitry Chaplin. Girls Next Door's Holly Madison is reportedly replacing the singer, but ABC won't confirm the casting rumors.
"The additional cast announcements will take place during Monday's show," a show rep told TVGuide.com. Jewel and O'Dell will appear on the opener to discuss their injuries.
Added executive producer Conrad Green: "Like most sports, dancing can be a demanding physical activity. Each participant of Dancing with the Stars warrants in contract that they are physically fit enough to participate in the competition. We love and appreciate Nancy and Jewel's competitive spirit, drive and desire to perform their best. Though we share in their disappointment that they can no longer continue, their physical well-being takes precedent above all else. We thank them both for giving it their all and wish them a quick and full recovery."
