Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn withdraws from Strictly

Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn has pulled out of this year's Strictly Come Dancing "due to unexpected medical reasons", just days after the line-up was announced.

Nairn, 49, is best known for playing Hodor – the guileless servant of House Stark - in HBO's fantasy drama.

He also portrayed Wee John Feeney in the US TV period comedy drama Our Flag Means Death, and is a house music DJ.

"With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons," Nairn said in a statement.

"I was truly looking forward to the journey, and I'm deeply sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor.

"Thank you all for your support, and I will be back on my feet very soon, in every sense. Love to all, Kristian."

Last week, the 6ft 10in Northern Irishman became the 15th and final contestant to be unveiled for this year's Strictly.

When his participation was announced last Friday, he said taking part in the dance contest would be "a huge challenge for me physically, but I'm ready to rise to it."

Referencing his withdrawal, the show's ecedutive producer Sarah James said: "We've absolutely loved getting to know Kristian in this short time, and he has all the makings of a brilliant Strictly Come Dancing contestant.

"We're incredibly sorry to lose him from this year's series and we all wish him a speedy recovery."

His replacement will be revealed on The One Show on BBC One from 19:00 BST on Thursday.