This week’s Strictly Come Dancing Icons Week brought glitz, great music, and some unforgettable routines, but there was also a touch of sadness in the ballroom. Two popular contestants, Stefan Dennis and Dani Dyer, were seen watching from the audience instead of performing after both were sidelined by injuries.
Earlier in the week, Neighbours star Stefan Dennis had to pull out of the competition after tearing his calf muscle. His professional dance partner, Dianne Buswell, was left without a celebrity partner as a result. Before the live performances began, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman took a moment to show their love and support for him.
“Stefan and Dianne had to sadly withdraw from the competition this week as Stefan sustained an injury,” Claudia told viewers. “He’s here with us tonight. We love you, Stefan.” Tess added warmly, “Lots of love to you, Stefan, from all of us.”
Fans noticed that Stefan was sitting next to Dani Dyer, who also had to drop out of this year’s season before the live shows even started after fracturing her ankle. The sight of both former contestants in the crowd tugged at viewers’ hearts.
One fan wrote on X, “aww stefan and dani… my two faves injured… GUTTED!!!! heartbroken mate!!” Another added, “awwww bless stefan and dani sat in the audience!!! I bet it’s so hard for them but so glad they still get to experience some of the magic.”
Dani, who had been paired with pro dancer Nikita Kuzmin, was later replaced by fellow Love Island star Amber Davies.
Despite the bittersweet moment, the rest of Icons Week went on in full sparkle. Tess and Claudia also thanked fans for all their “beautiful messages” after confirming that both of them will be leaving Strictly at the end of this year.
The night continued with more surprises, as stars Ellie Goldstein and Vicky Pattison were treated to visits from their musical heroes, a reminder that even with setbacks, the magic of Strictly never stops.
