Stefan Dennis’s Covid-19 era setback? No—it’s a health setback this weekend for Strictly Come Dancing
Fans of the BBC ballroom hit woke to surprising news on Friday as Strictly Come Dancing confirmed that Stefan Dennis, the Neighbours legend known to millions as Paul Robinson, will not perform in this Saturday’s live show. The actor has reportedly fallen ill in the days leading up to the weekend, and doctors have advised him to rest. As a result, Stefan and his dance partner Dianne Buswell will skip this week’s live performance and move straight through to the following week.
What this means for Movie Week
Movie Week — a fan-favorite night in the Strictly calendar — saw Stefan and Dianne scheduled to dance a Waltz to “It Is You (I Have Loved)” from Shrek. With no performance on the upcoming program, the couple will automatically receive a bye to next week, where they hope to be back on the dance floor. The absence changes the dynamic for the rest of the lineup and leaves many viewers curious about how the show will compensate during a night centered on beloved film tunes.
Reactions from the Strictly family
The official Strictly account released the statement, noting that Stefan’s illness has been checked by doctors and rest is now the recommended course of action. Fellow contestants and hosts quickly offered messages of support. Dianne Buswell, undoubtably one of the show’s bright lights, posted heartfelt condolences and Aussie pride in the comments of the announcement, writing that she was sending all her Aussie love to Stefan.
On the BBC two-part program It Takes Two, host Janette Manrara echoed the sentiment, wishing Stefan a speedy recovery and expressing anticipation for his return. Other stars joined in with kind words, including Claudia Winkleman, who shared red heart emojis, and Amy Dowden, who sent wishes for his well-being. Amber Davies also joined the chorus of support.
What happened in the latest performance
Stefan’s latest appearance was marked by a lively Cha Cha Cha set to “Give It Up” by KC and The Sunshine Band. The routine drew a mixed critical response: one judge described it as “stompy” and stiff, while another noted strengths in certain moments. Stefan later admitted he had felt petrified before stepping onto the floor, saying the routine had left him feeling stumped. The score reflected the mixed verdict, placing the couple among the lower ranks of that week’s leaderboard.
The bigger picture for Stefan and Dianne
Falling ill is an unwelcome setback for any Strictly contestant, especially during a high-profile week like Movie Week. Yet the show’s format allows for byes when a dancer cannot perform, and the emphasis remains on health first. Stefan and Dianne will return to the dance floor as soon as medical advice permits, and fans are likely to welcome their comeback with renewed enthusiasm.
Looking ahead
As Stefan recuperates, viewers will watch for updates on his recovery and a potential resumption of routine training. Dianne Buswell, who has partnered with a string of celebrities over the years, has consistently demonstrated poise and encouragement, and her fans will be hoping to see their favorite duo return to form shortly. With Movie Week now behind them and a bye secured, the couple will focus on remaining ready for the next live show, when the lights and music return to their dynamic performances.
