Christmas Strictly star Billy Monger quit BBC show amid family emergency
-Source: Reach Publishing Services Limited
Ex-racing driver Billy Monger will be stepping onto the dance floor for the BBC's Christmas special of Strictly.
The 25-year-old registered for the special episode earlier this year and is now set to compete against comedian Josh Widdicombe, drag performer Tayce, presenter Vogue Williams, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, and actress Tamsin Outhwaite, all aiming to win the Christmas Glitterball trophy.
Monger is well-acquainted with facing tough situations. Just weeks before turning 18, he experienced a serious setback after a nearly fatal crash that left him severely injured. The accident occurred during a Formula 4 race at Donnington, resulting in the amputation of both of his legs.
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Nevertheless, he didn't allow it to stop him. Just three months later, he was back on the track testing a car. The following year, Monger chose to enter a Formula 3 race and actively campaigned for the FIA, the sport's governing body, to remove its restriction on disabled drivers participating in single-seater races, making it possible for him and others to race alongside able-bodied competitors.
His remarkable courage earned him the Helen Rollason Award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event. Additionally, a documentary detailing his accident and return to racing received a BAFTA nomination. Since then, Monger has transitioned into a role as a presenter and commentator, contributing to Channel 4's broadcasts of Formula One and the Paralympics in Paris.
Strictly won’t be the first BBC show that the former racing driver has taken part in. Last year, he competed in Celebrity Race Across the World. He teamed up with his sister Bonny to race against Good Morning Britain’s weather presenter Alex Beresford and his father, along with McFly’s drummer Harry Judd and his mother, and Melanie Blatt from All Saints and her mom. Together, they traveled through 24 countries, starting from Morocco and ending in Norway.
The Mongers' journey in the competition came to an unexpected end as they withdrew from the show in the final episode due to a family emergency, despite being ahead of the other celebrities. In the episode's beginning, the remaining contestants were informed through a letter from the siblings that read: "Hello everyone, we regret to announce that due to a family emergency, we have chosen to exit the race. We wish you all the best of luck and can’t wait to see you back home!"
"Unfortunately, we faced a family emergency in the UK, so Bon and I have decided to withdraw from the race before the final leg," Monger shared. "We're really disappointed because we felt like we were making progress in the competition. It's tough to say goodbye, but family always takes priority. While it's upsetting, I believe it's the right decision."
Upon returning to the UK, Monger provided additional information about their departure, stating on social media: "Bon and I were really upset to have to withdraw from the race. A close family member experienced a serious accident, so we needed to return home. Fortunately, everything is fine now. We truly enjoyed the experience!"
