Strictly Come Dancing 2011 – All the News & Gossip Series 9 Contestants - All you need to know about Strictly Come Dancing UK 2011
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New Strictly professional dancer Artem in visa row

New Strictly Come Dancing professional Artem Chigvintsev has had to fly back to America due to working too many hours under the rules of his working visa.

The BBC are hoping that Artem can return for the start of Strictly after he reapplies for a new visa but this is in doubt.

Russian born Artem was poached by the BBC from the West End’s Burn the Floor, which is currently starring Brian Fortuna and Ali Bastian.

A Strictly insider said: “It’s embarrassing for the BBC. They basically had to do this to stop Artem being deported.

Will Artem be back in time for the start of rehearsals or will a replacement have to stand in?