Strictly Come Dancing’s Judi Love has said she can’t smell and that the past few days have been ‘rough’ as she continues to recover from Covid.
The Loose Women star and comedian revealed she had tested positive for the virus last week and did not take part in Saturday’s show due to being in isolation.
In a video shared on her social media, Judi gave an update on how she’s been holding up and began by stressing that ‘Rona is real’.
‘I give thanks that I was doing the exercise and dancing thing,’ she said. ‘I feel like I’m handling much better than I would have had if I hadn’t been doing the exercise and the sweat.
‘You can hear from my voice I have done all the West Indian recipes and remedies for those who are West Indian, especially Jamaicans, you know what I’m talking about.’
She went on to say she’s had all kinds of soup, including chicken foot, lamb neck, and red peas, as well as all the typical Caribbean ingredients, including ginger, lime, and rum – not that she can taste it.
‘I can’t even smell myself and I know some of you lot need to smell yourself,’ Judi continued.
‘I just want to say to you I’m here. It’s been a rough couple of days and it’s really about for you to get your health in order. Health is wealth and I’m not just talking about cashing that cheque.
‘Rona has got me locked up in here like I’m the woman from Orange Is The New Black. Rona has got me sleeping out here like someone with no ambition. Rona has got me here standing at the window waving.’
Judi implored her fans to spend time with their family and loved ones as Rona ‘won’t miss that opportunity’.
‘Look after yourself, not just because of Rona but just in general,’ she continued, before thanking her fans for all their well wishes.
At present, Judi is still expected to return to Strictly this week after her period of self-isolation ends.
A Strictly Come Dancing spokeswoman said: ‘Judi Love has tested positive for Covid-19 and is now self-isolating following the latest government guidelines.
‘While Judi and Graziano will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, they will return the following week.’
Judi expressed ‘great disappointment’ at having to miss Strictly on Saturday, tweeting: ‘Hey my lovelies it’s with great disappointment that I will not be performing this weekend @bbcstrictly due to testing positive with Covid 19.
‘Hoping to make a speedy recovery & dance for you next weekend. Stay safe & thank you for your well wishes #JudiLove #Strictly.’
Earlier this month, McFly star Tom Fletcher and partner Amy Dowden returned to the dancefloor after testing positive for coronavirus. The duo missed a week of shows while they were self-isolating.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One.
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