Strictly Come Dancing star George Clarke has been left reeling after his cancer-stricken mother Nicky suffered a sudden and terrifying health setback, just days after travelling to the studio to cheer on her son during one of the most emotional nights of the series.

The 25-year-old YouTuber and podcaster, who broke down in tears on Saturday’s live show (November 15) while dedicating a heartfelt Rumba to his mum amid her ongoing fight against the disease, was spotted looking distraught as he dashed into the entrance of a major London hospital on Monday afternoon (November 17). Eyewitnesses described the social media sensation – real name George Clarkey – appearing “pale and panicked” as he hurried through the doors, clutching his phone and ignoring calls from concerned photographers.

Sources close to the family claim Nicky, who has been bravely battling cancer on top of a long-term struggle with encephalitis, was rushed to A&E after collapsing at home with severe pain and breathing difficulties. The scare comes less than 48 hours after she sat proudly in the Strictly audience, beaming through tears as George performed to Lily Allen’s Somewhere Only We Know – a song with deep family significance, having been sung at his grandfather’s funeral.

In the pre-dance VT, George had bravely opened up about his mum’s diagnosis for the first time on national television, revealing how the “selfless” Nicky had previously spent time in intensive care with encephalitis when he was just 16, unable to recognise her own son. “Unfortunately, recently she got diagnosed with cancer,” he said, voice breaking. “Nobody deserves what she’s gone through – least of allay her.”

The routine earned a respectable 29 points despite technical critiques, but the real prize was seeing Nicky in the crowd alongside George’s dad Shaun. Fans hailed it as “beautiful” and “heartbreaking,” with many praising the influencer’s vulnerability.

Yet joy has turned to fear overnight. Insiders say Nicky’s condition deteriorated rapidly on Sunday evening, prompting an emergency ambulance call. Paramedics reportedly battled to stabilise her at the scene before blue-lighting her to hospital, where George – fresh from rehearsals for Blackpool Week – raced to be by her side.

In a bombshell leak from medical notes seen by a family friend, the consulting doctor’s stark seven-word conclusion has left the Clarkes devastated: “Cancer has spread – treatment options now limited.”

“Nicky has been a warrior, but this latest scan shows the disease has progressed aggressively despite chemotherapy,” the source told us. “The doctor was blunt: the spread to vital organs means they’re shifting to palliative care discussions. George is absolutely beside himself – he’s barely slept, cancelling everything to be with her.”

The TikTok star, who boasts millions of followers and co-hosts the popular Saving Grace podcast spin-off, has yet to comment publicly, but posted a simple black square on his Instagram story with the caption: “Family first always .”

His Strictly partner, professional dancer Alexis Warr, shared a supportive message: “Sending all the love to my dance fam. We’re here for you G .”

The BBC has declined to comment on whether the crisis could force George to withdraw from the competition ahead of the iconic Blackpool special this weekend. Bookmakers have already suspended betting on his exit, with one spokesperson saying: “Family comes before the glitterball – no one would blame him if he steps away.”

Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, trending #GetWellNicky and #TeamGeorge. One wrote: “That Rumba was for his mum and now this? Heartbreaking. Praying for a miracle.” Another added: “Strictly is amazing but health is everything. George, take all the time you need.”

George has long been open about his close bond with Nicky, who he credits for inspiring his positivity and humour online. As an ambassador for Encephalitis International, he’s raised awareness of her earlier illness, but the cancer revelation hit like a thunderbolt just weeks into the Strictly journey.

As the nation holds its breath for updates, one thing is clear: the young star who lit up the ballroom with his infectious energy now faces the toughest step of all – off the dance floor.

Friends say George is “preparing for the worst but hoping for the best,” with the family rallying around Nicky’s bedside. Whatever happens next, George’s courage in sharing their story has touched millions – a reminder that behind the sequins and smiles, real life doesn’t pause.