VINCENT PASTORE WITHDRAWS FROM DANCING WITH THE STARS

In the first of what promise to be many surprises in the fourth season of Dancing with the Stars, actor Vincent Pastore, sixty years of age, has withdrawn from the competition after one week of training. Pastore came to the decision that the physical demands of a ten-week season would be too difficult for him to undertake.

When I initially committed to joining Dancing with the Stars, I didnt realize just how physically demanding it would be for me. Unable to put forth my best effort, I felt it appropriate to step aside and give someone else the opportunity, said Pastore. Id like to thank ABC and the shows producers for inviting me to participate. I wish my partner, Edyta, and the other dancers the best of luck.

Executive producer Conrad Green added: Were sad that Vincent felt he was unable to continue in the competition, as he would have been great on the show -- but we appreciate him standing aside now rather than having to withdraw later. Dancing with the Stars is physically demanding and it pays to know your limits. We respect his decision.

Dancing with the Stars is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, Strictly Come Dancing. This version is produced in America by BBC Worldwide. Conrad Green and Richard Hopkins are executive producers and Izzie Pick is co-executive producer. Rob Wade and Matilda Zoltowski are supervising producers. Alex Rudzinski directs.