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Strictly Come Dancing star Layton Williams has been forced to pull out of the theatre show, Kiss of the Spider Woman, and issued an apology to fans this week.
The actor, 31, had been set to portray Molina in the musical but has now been replaced by Fabian Soto Pacheco after withdrawing from the production.
Taking to his Instagram Stories to repost a poster of the new cast and share the news with followers, he wrote: 'Unfortunately I've had to withdraw from this incredible show!
He continued: 'Wishing this gorgeous cast all the very best for a fab run ❤️'
Following his announcement, Layton shared an official statement which read: 'Walking away from this production was an incredibly tough decision and not one I made lightly.
He continued: 'What Director Paul and the team are putting together is truly magical, but an opportunity arose that I simply couldn’t turn down.
Strictly Come Dancing star Layton Williams has been forced to pull out of the theatre show, Kiss of the Spider Woman, and issued an apology to fans this week (pictured last month)
The actor, 31, who was set to portray Molina in the musical, took to his Instagram Stories to repost a poster of the new cast and share the news with followers, writing: 'Unfortunately I've had to withdraw from this incredible show!'
'While I’m sad to be leaving the show, I know the production is going to be absolutely incredible, and I’m sending all my love to the company, including Fabian, who is going to make a remarkable Molina.
'Finally, I’d like to say a huge thank you to the teams at Curve, Bristol Old Vic, Mayflower Southampton, and everyone who has helped me navigate this situation.
'I’ll forever be indebted to you and hope we can collaborate again in the future.
'To everyone else, please make sure you book tickets to see Kiss of the Spider Woman! It really is going to be an unmissable show!'
Issuing an apology to fans, he continued: 'Lastly…Apologies to any loyal fans who booked tickets to see me personally. I so appreciate your love and support.
'Even my grandparents booked and are still excited about seeing the show, bless them. So I urge ya’ll please to do the same.
'Once I spill my tea I hope you’ll understand. But for now, big love and thanks to the incredible teams for everything.'
Curve chief executive Chris Stafford and artistic director Nikolai Foster said on behalf of the co-producers: 'Acclaimed director Paul and his team have brought together a phenomenal company and whilst we are sorry to see Layton leave the production, we wish him every continued success.
Despite withdrawing from the show, Layton's schedule is still packed to the brim. He is currently starring on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour as a special guest and has reunited with his dance partner Nikita Kuzmin (both pictured last month)
Layton originally competed on the ballroom series in 2023, with the pair making it all the way to the final. However, they were beaten to the Glitterball Trophy by Ellie Leach and her pro partner Vito Coppola (seen)
'Layton has enjoyed a long relationship with our audiences and we very much look forward to welcoming him back to Curve in the future.'
Daily Mail has contacted Layton's representative for comment.
The theatre production is set to kick off in Leicester in April before moving on to Bristol and stopping in Southampton.
Despite withdrawing from the show, Layton's schedule is still packed to the brim.
He is currently starring on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour as a special guest and has reunited with his dance partner Nikita Kuzmin. The dynamic duo are performing a string of shows up and down the country.
Layton originally competed on the glitzy ballroom series in 2023, with the pair making it all the way to the final.
However, they were beaten to the Glitterball Trophy by former Coronation Street star Ellie Leach and her professional partner Vito Coppola.
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