‘Strictly Come Dancing’ stars were kept in the dark about Claudia Winkleman’s absence from the show.
According to singer Pixie Lott, who is currently competing on the BBC One dance competition, contestants were unaware Claudia’s eight-year-old daughter Matilda had been badly burned in an accident on Halloween and were simply told by show bosses that the presenter had "family issues" when she failed to turn up to the live show.
Pixie told BANG Showbiz: "We just knew when she didn’t turn up one Saturday. And everyone was like, ‘Oh no’. I didn’t know what it was; they just said it was family issues."
Claudia, 42 – who was replaced by spin-off show ‘It Takes Two’ presenter Zoe Ball during her three week absence – returned to her hosting duties this weekend after taking time off to care for her daughter and celebrity contestants were thrilled to see her back.
Pixie said: "Everyone loves Claudia so everyone was so happy to have her back.
"She’s so funny. She’s honestly a top lady. She’s exactly the same on camera and off camera with everyone."
The blonde beauty, 23, was speaking at the secret launch of her new album ‘Platinum Pixie’ in association with Viber yesterday (25.11.14) after fans were given the chance to win tickets to the gig by following Pixie’s Public Chat on the messaging app, and added that the stars of the show are trying their best to support Claudia on her return.
She said: "Everyone’s very supportive. She did so well last Saturday to come back because it must be a very tough time but she’s such an amazing lady."
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Pixie Lott kept in the dark over Claudia Winkleman’s Strictly absence
