Strictly favourite Ricky Whittle arrested on suspicion of assault
The future of Strictly Come Dancing's favourite Ricky Whittle was in doubt today after he was arrested in the early hours of this morning.
The 28-year-old Hollyoaks actor missed rehearsals for the BBC show today over allegedly running over a photographer in his car as he left a showbiz party in Liverpool city centre.
The embarrassment has seriously affected his preparation for the live show tomorrow and he risks missing further practise sessions with dance partner Natalie Lowe.
Favourite: Ricky Whittle in action on Strictly Come Dancing
A BBC insider said: "The show's bosses are all very worried and until we get more information in we don't know when he will be back. It is terrible timing. If convicted he could be kicked off the show."
Whittle, who plays Calvin Valentine in the Channel 4 soap, has been impressing the Strictly judges with his performances with professional dance partner Lowe.
He is the current favourite to win the contest and has averaged 34.5 points out of 40 from the panel since the series began 10 weeks ago. Five couples now remain.
Whittle had been at a Hollyoaks colleague's leaving party when he allegedly struck a man while driving in the early hours of this morning. Whittle was leaving the Parr Street Studios in Liverpool city centre.
A Merseyside police spokesperson confirmed: "A 28-year-old man from Billinge, Lancashire, has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in custody."
It is believed Whittle's car may have collided with a photographer named Steve Farrel, 34. Mr Farrel claims he was left with bruising to his legs.
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He was previously involved in an incident with footballer Paul Gascoigne in 2005, although the photographer later dropped assault charges.
Whittle was joined at last nigh's party by Hollyoaks co-stars including Jennifer Metcalfe, Gemma Merna, Emma Rigby and Melissa Walton and his ex Carley Stenson.
Whittle was released on police bail pending further enquiries on Friday afternoon.
A spokesman for Hollyoaks and Whittle's representatives declined to comment.
