Stefan Dennis Forced to Leave Strictly Come Dancing After Injury: What Happened?

Stefan Dennis Leaves Strictly Come Dancing: How Injury Ended a Promising Run

For fans tuning in to this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, the news was a blow: Stefan Dennis, the celebrated Neighbours actor, has had to withdraw from the competition due to a significant injury. The BBC confirmed on October 20 that Dennis, partnered with professional dancer Dianne Buswell, would no longer compete after suffering a torn calf muscle.

The Moment That Changed Everything

It started as a morning like any other, but for Dennis, it became, in his words, “the most disappointing day” of his Strictly journey. Just as he began feeling confident on the dance floor, a doctor informed him that his torn calf muscle was severe enough to force an immediate withdrawal from the show. “I can’t tell you how devastated I am to have to leave so prematurely,” Dennis wrote, “especially as there has been, and still is, so much love and support from everyone for both Dianne and myself.” (BBC)

Fans of Neighbours were quick to pick up on Dennis’ playful aside: “Fun fact for all the avid Neighbours fans… it’s the same leg!” Dennis’ humor, even in disappointment, resonated with long-time viewers who remembered his previous on-screen injuries.

Illness, Recovery, and the Road to Injury

Dennis’ journey on Strictly had already faced hurdles. Earlier in October, he was forced to skip a show due to illness on medical advice, with the BBC providing a “bye” for that week. When he returned, Dennis and Buswell delivered an energetic Charleston routine to “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I, earning their highest score yet: 26 points. Their jubilation after the performance was palpable, as the pair leapt in celebration. But celebrations were cut short.

Just days later, the torn calf muscle ended Dennis’ run, despite his hopes of pushing further in the competition. Executive Producer Sarah James expressed the show’s collective disappointment: “We’ve adored having Stefan on Strictly Come Dancing, and are heartbroken that his Strictly journey—and his fantastic partnership with Dianne Buswell—has been cut short. It’s been a joy to see him embrace the series with such enthusiasm, and we really hope that, once better, he will keep dancing.” (BBC Studios)

A Partnership That Sparked Joy

From the outset, Dennis and Buswell’s performances brought a unique “Team Aussie” energy to the dance floor. Audiences responded warmly to their chemistry, and fellow contestants praised Dennis’ progression and positive attitude. Dennis himself credited Buswell and the Strictly team for helping him fulfill a dream: “I owe both the Strictly Family and Dianne a massive debt of gratitude for giving me the opportunity to fulfil my dream of being able to dance with my wife. (When my leg is better)”

Strictly’s format meant that Dennis and Buswell, having missed a week due to illness, were allowed to return. But fate had other plans. Their final Charleston became a bittersweet highlight, marking the end of a journey that had just begun to gather momentum.

Strictly Continues, But the Stage Feels Different

With Dennis’ departure, the show will move forward with eleven couples. The BBC has confirmed that the next episode will not feature Dennis and Buswell, but viewers can catch their reflections on their journey during an interview on Strictly: It Takes Two, scheduled for Wednesday, October 22.

Elsewhere on the show, other contestants have faced their own challenges. Over the recent weekend, former England rugby player Chris Robshaw was eliminated after losing the dance-off to EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and her partner Julian Caillon. Robshaw’s exit, like Dennis’, was marked by gratitude: “It’s given me such confidence,” he said, reflecting on his time on the show.

What Comes Next for Stefan Dennis?

While Dennis’ Strictly journey ended earlier than hoped, his resilience and humor have left a lasting impression. Fans on social media have rallied around him, sending messages of support and wishing for a swift recovery. As for dancing, Dennis insists he’s not done: “Once better, I’ll keep dancing.” For now, recovery comes first.

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to face physical setbacks on live competition shows, but Dennis’ exit underscores both the risks and the emotional investment that come with chasing a dream on such a public stage. For viewers, his story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live television—and the personal triumphs and losses that play out beyond the glitter and lights.

Stefan Dennis’ withdrawal from Strictly Come Dancing stands as a testament to the unpredictability of live performance and the resilience required of its participants. His journey, though cut short, embodied both vulnerability and determination—qualities that resonate with anyone who’s ever chased a dream, only to be sidelined by circumstances beyond their control.