Why did Stefan Dennis have to quit Strictly Come Dancing?

Neighbours star Stefan Dennis previously announced that he would be leaving the Strictly Come Dancing series early. Here’s why. <i>(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)</i>
Neighbours star Stefan Dennis previously announced that he would be leaving the Strictly Come Dancing series early. Here’s why. (Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
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Earlier this week, actor and Neighbours star Stefan Dennis announced that he would be leaving Strictly Come Dancing early.

The actor was paired with professional dancer Dianne Buswell and was previously forced to pull out of movie week before returning for week four.

However, on October 21, Stefan took to Instagram to confirm that he would be quitting the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing due to an injury.

Why did Stefan Dennis quit Strictly Come Dancing?

Writing on Instagram, Stefan confirmed that he had torn his calf, forcing him to withdraw from the BBC show.

Sharing: “This morning I woke up to the most disappointing day of my time in my Strictly journey.

"Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing in the comp and achieve more great dances along the way, I was told that on Saturday, I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show.

"I can’t tell you how devastated I am to have to leave so prematurely especially as there has been, and still is, so much love and support from everyone for both Dianne and myself.

“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)

"Fun fact for all the avid Neighbours fans... it’s the same leg!"


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Following the news of his exit, Stefan’s Strictly partner, Dianne, who is pregnant, wrote: “Thanks for being the best partner to both of us. We love ya, Stef.”

Fellow Strictly star, Amy Dowden, said: “So gutted for you both. Sending all my love and well wishes.”

Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday evenings.

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