Strictly's Dianne Buswell breaks silence as Stefan Dennis pulls out of live show

Strictly Come Dancing's Dianne Buswell has taken to social media to send love to her celebrity partner Stefan Dennis, who will not be participating in this weekend's live show due to illness.

The BBC confirmed the news on Friday (October 10) with a statement: "Stefan Dennis won't be dancing on Saturday night due to illness. We wish him a speedy recovery and will hopefully see him back in the Ballroom with Dianne next week."

Dianne took to Instagram to share the announcement and added her own message for Stefan. On her Instagram Story, the Australian dancer wrote: "Sending Aussie love to the wonderful @stefandennis7 you are such a trooper and I know how much you wanted to dance. Hopefully we will be back in full force next week.", reports Wales Online.

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Stefan, best known for his role as Paul Robinson in Neighbours, responded to the announcement himself, writing: "A huge cheers and thanks to everyone who has been supporting myself and Dianne. So sorry to disappoint for tomorrow night but I expect to be back on deck with a full recovery and a rip roaring dance next week to makeup."

Strictly co-star Vicky Pattison commented: "We'll miss you this weekend Stef! Feel better soon you legend."

Motsi Mabuse, a Strictly judge since 2019, added: "Get well soon."

Strictly It Takes Two host Fleur East gushed: "Get well son Stefan."

During Friday's episode of Strictly spin-off It Takes Two, host Janette Manrara revealed to viewers at the programme's opening that Stefan won't be taking to the dance floor this weekend.

Following the announcement, the ex-professional dancer said: "Stefan, we're sending you our best wishes and we can't wait to have you back soon."

Last weekend, Stefan and Dianne were awarded a combined score of 17 out of a possible 40.

Nevertheless, with the opening two weeks merged together, the duo achieved an aggregate score of 39 out of 80, positioning them in 12th place on the scoreboard.

Stefan and Dianne were scheduled to deliver a Waltz to It Is You (I Have Loved) from Shrek this evening as Movie Week makes its return.

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday, October 11 on BBC One from 6:05pm