Stefan Dennis has been cruelly forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing after suffering a serious calf injury, the BBC revealed on Monday.

Neighbours Star ‘Devastated’ to Leave

The 66-year-old Neighbours actor said he was “devastated” to exit the competition, especially as he had just started to find his rhythm on the dance floor.

In a heartfelt message, Stefan admitted: “Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing and achieve more great dances, I was told that I had torn my calf so badly that I must withdraw.”

He added it was especially tough to go now, with so much love and support from fellow contestants, the Strictly family, and his professional dance partner, Dianne Buswell.

Cheerful Despite Setback at Pride Of Britain

Despite the crushing injury, Stefan showed good spirits on the red carpet at the Pride Of Britain awards on Monday night, cutting a dapper figure in a black suit.

Pregnant Partner Dianne Buswell Backs Stefan

Stefan’s dance partner, pregnant professional Dianne Buswell, 36, also expressed her disappointment on Instagram, writing:

“Stefo, I’m so sorry our Strictly journey was cut short just as the confidence was growing. You can hold your head high. The main reason for being on this show was to dance with your wife—and now you can do just that.”

“You are the kindest human I’ve worked with, and I can always say I danced with the iconic Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis.”

Dianne and Stefan had briefly withdrawn last weekend due to Stefan falling ill, but hoped to return—only for the torn calf to end their run.

Strictly’s Injury Woes Continue

Stefan is the third contestant forced out of Strictly this series, following Dani Dyer who fractured her ankle, and Kristian Nairn who quit before the show started for medical reasons.

Dianne Battles Rumours Over Pregnancy

Dianne recently shut down speculation that their absences were related to her pregnancy rather than Stefan’s health. She told fans:

“We wouldn’t lie about someone being sick. Yes, I’m pregnant but feeling good and capable. There are strict protocols if a pro gets sick or injured.”

She is the first professional dancer to compete on Strictly while pregnant, taking things at a careful pace with regular rest breaks.

What’s Next for Stefan?

Stefan promised fans he’ll be back dancing—on his own terms once his leg heals. He offered a cheeky nod to Neighbours fans, revealing the injury was to the same leg his character Paul Robinson limped on.

Strictly posted on social media: “Sadly due to an injury, Stefan Dennis is leaving the competition. We have loved watching the magic created by Stefan and Dianne. He will be sorely missed.”

For now, the Strictly ballroom feels a little emptier without Stefan’s Team Aussie energy.