TV bosses have been thrown into a panic after one of the stars lined up for this year's I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here was forced to pull out at the eleventh hour due to injury.
According to insiders, Coronation Street actor Alan Halsall, 41, has had to withdraw after undergoing reconstructive surgery on his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) last week.
A Corrie spokesperson confirmed the star will be taking a break from the long-running soap.
The new series of I'm A Celebrity is set to kick off on November 19, with Frankie Dettori, Jamie Lynn Spears and Sam Thompson among those rumoured to be taking part.A source told The Mirror: "It's a big blow, but there's no way he can go to Australia – his surgeon would have a fit.
"Alan needs to recover fully and then maybe he can take part next year. It's a massive shame because everyone was really looking forward to having him on the show, but these things happen."
The Standard has contacted a representative for I'm A Celebrity for comment.
Halsall took to social media yesterday to give a health update alongside a picture of him in bed and giving the thumbs up.
"ACL Reconstruction surgery [green tick emoji] Well, On Friday I underwent ACL reconstruction surgery," he wrote in the accompanying caption.
Adding: "I have been told the surgery went really well. I know I have a long 9-12 months of rehabilitation ahead of me but I'm sure with the support of family & friends I'll get there.
"Thank you to the amazing! Staff at Oaklands xx ..and also Thanks to my very own nurse Ratched @missdrewmerry93 Any rehab tips or advise??"
