Louise Redknapp has revealed she will be taking time out of her latest project, the 9 to 5 musical, after injuring herself in a fall.
The singer, 44, has been rehearsing for the musical version of Dolly Parton’s famous film, in which she was due to play Violet Newstead, the role played by Lily Tomlin in the 1980 film.
She wrote on Instagram: “It breaks my heart 💔to say I am having to take some time out and won’t be able to continue with my role in 9-5.
“Due to a nasty fall I have only gone and fractured my wrist and got 10 (yes 10) stitches in my chin. 🤕
“Following my doctors orders- they have said I will be ok but as they say in the theatre 🎭 ’the show must go on’ and I wish the rest of the fabulous cast an amazing opening night and I will be back on that stage for 9-5 before you know it”.
Love Island winner Amber Davies, who has signed up to star alongside her as Judy Bernly, the character played by Jane Fonda in the film, wished her well on Instagram.
In an Instagram story, Davies shared a photograph of the pair together and wrote: “I leave her for 2 minutes” followed by a sad-faced emoji.
She added: “One of my favourite humans. I wish you a speedy recover (sic) and can’t wait to watch you be a leading lady. See you Tuesday”.
The show’s producers said in a statement: “Due to an injury this week, Louise Redknapp has had to temporarily withdraw from performing the role of Violet in 9 to 5 The Musical.
“The recovery time recommended means Louise is no longer able to properly rehearse the show in the remaining time left before opening.
“Together we have made the difficult decision to delay Louise’s start date in the show.
“We hope that Louise will start performances some time towards the end of March/early April 2019.
“Everyone at 9 to 5 wishes Louise a speedy recovery and we look forward to welcoming her back”.
The statement added: “Any patrons who would like to exchange their tickets to a performance when Louise has returned to the show should contact their point of sale.”
They said Redknapp’s replacement will be announced shortly.
The production will run at London’s Savoy Theatre, with the first preview on January 28.