Strictly Come Dancing star Stefan Dennis forced to quit after severe calf injury
Neighbours Legend ‘Devastated’ to Exit Strictly
Stefan Dennis, 66, has been cruelly forced out of Strictly Come Dancing after tearing his calf muscle badly, the BBC confirmed on Monday. The Neighbours star said he was “devastated,” especially since he’d just found his groove on the dance floor.
“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 how tough it was to go now, with so much love and support from the Strictly family, fellow contestants, and his professional partner Dianne Buswell.
Cheerful Despite Setback at Pride of Britain Awards
Despite the painful injury, Stefan showed a brave front on the red carpet at Monday night’s Pride of Britain awards, looking sharp in a black suit and even managing a smile.
Pregnant Partner Dianne Buswell Supports Stefan
Professional dancer Dianne Buswell, 36, who is expecting, took to Instagram to express her sadness over their early exit:
“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.”
The pair had already briefly pulled out last weekend due to Stefan falling ill. Sadly, the torn calf injury dashed hopes of a quick return.
Strictly’s Injury Curse Continues
Stefan becomes the third contestant to leave this Strictly series with injury troubles. Earlier exits included Dani Dyer, who fractured her ankle, and Kristian Nairn, who withdrew before the show began due to medical reasons.
Dianne Busts Pregnancy Rumours Amid Strictly Absences
Dianne also slammed speculation that her pregnancy was behind their Strictly absences rather than Stefan’s health. She reassured 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.”
As the first pro dancer to compete while pregnant, Dianne took a careful approach with rest breaks throughout the competition.
What’s Next for Stefan Dennis?
Stefan promised fans he’ll be back on the dance floor once he’s fully healed – on his own terms. He cheekily revealed the injury was on the same leg his iconic Neighbours character Paul Robinson limps on.
Strictly’s official statement read: “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 infectious Team Aussie spirit lighting up the floor.
