HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — "Dancing With the Stars" has its first casualties and the season hasn't even begun yet.
Singer Jewel and "Access Hollywood" host Nancy O'Dell have both withdrawn from the ABC reality show's upcoming eighth season, the network announced Thursday.
Both stars suffered injuries while training for the competition. The 34-year-old Jewel, who was paired with pro dancer Dmitry Chaplin, was diagnosed with a fractured tibia in both legs. The 43-year-old O'Dell, meanwhile, has a torn meniscus. She was matched with dancing pro Tony Dovolani.
"When the doctors told me my injuries were so severe that I couldn't walk, let alone compete, I was devastated that I couldn't continue the show," said Jewel in a statement. "I have every intention of being at 'Dancing with the Stars' this season supporting my husband, Ty, and his partner, Chelsie (Hightower). I hope to be back on the show in the future."
"Beyond disappointment doesn't even being to describe how I feel about not being able to continue on 'Dancing with the Stars,' 
" said O'Dell. "It has been one of my favorite shows since Season One! But I have torn the meniscus in my knee in two places, which requires surgery. 'Dancing with the Stars' was a great experience. I'll miss working with my partner, Tony Dovolani, and all the other wonderful people on the amazing production that is 'Dancing with the Stars' "
Both Jewel and O'Dell will address their injuries when the hit series premieres next Monday, which is when cast adjustments will also been announced, the network said.
"Like most sports, dancing can be a demanding, physical activity," said the show's executive producer, Conrad Green, in a statement. "Each participant of 'Dancing with the Stars' warrants in contract that they are physically fit enough to participate in the competition. We love and appreciate Nancy and Jewel's competitive spirit, drive and desire to perform their best. Though we share in their disappointment that they can no longer continue, their physical well-being takes precedent above all else. We thank them both for giving it their all and wish them a quick and full recovery."
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