Amy Dowden 'gutted' as Strictly star quits midway through 2025 series

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has spoken out after it was revealed that two of her co-stars have quit the BBC series midway through the competition. On Monday, fans were left shocked after Neighbours star Stefan Dennis and his pro partner Dianne Buswell announced their exit after the actor suffered a major injury. After recently missing a live episode due to sickness, it was confirmed that the lovelingly dubbed "Team Aussie" will no longer be in the running for the Glitterball trophy.

In their social media statement, Stefan penned: "This morning I woke up to the most disappointing day of my Strictly journey. "Just when I finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing in the competition and achieve more great dances along the way." Detailing his gruelling injury, he continued: "I was told on Saturday that I have torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show." Thousands of heartbroken fans flooded the comment section with well-wishes as well as disappointed goodbyes to the duo.

Among the messages was professional Amy, who is currently paired with Tom Skinner, she shared: "So gutted for you both. Sending all my love and well wishes xxxx."

Lauren Oakley echoed this, adding: "Gutted for you both. Get well soon & lots of love." As Karen Hauer penned: "Oh no, so sad. Sending all the love and get well soon."

One fan commented: "So so gutted, I loved Team Aussie, get well soon Stefan."

"I'm gutted. Was thoroughly enjoying watching Stefan and Dianne together so much fun. Aussie! Aussie! Aussie," said another viewer.

In his statement, Stefan continued: "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)"

In a touching nod to his famous role, the Paul Robinson star added: "Fun fact, to all the avid Neighbours fans ... it's the same leg!"

Dianne also issued her own supportive statement and wrote: "Stefo I'm so sorry our Strictly journey was cut short just as that confidence was starting to grow. But you can walk away with your head held high. You can go home to your wonderful wife, put your hand out and say, 'Would you like to cha cha cha with me?'

"The main reason for being on this show was to be able to dance with her and you can certainly do that now. You are the kindest human I have ever worked with and I can always say I got to dance with the iconic Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis or as my dad calls ya Paul Robinson."

The mum-to-be concluded: "Can't wait for you to send me the video of you and Gail dancing together!"