Dani Dyer Withdraws From ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ Following Ankle Fracture
September 19, 2024 – Dani Dyer has announced her withdrawal from the 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing after sustaining a fractured ankle during rehearsals. The former Love Island star, and daughter of EastEnders actor Danny Dyer, shared the news in a statement released this evening, expressing she is “heartbroken” by the decision.
Dyer explained, “I had a fall on Friday in rehearsals and landed funny. I thought I had rolled my foot, but it swelled up badly over the weekend. After an MRI scan yesterday,it turns out I have fractured my ankle. Apparently,doing the quickstep on a fracture is not advisable,and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance,so I’ve had to pull out of the show.”
The 29-year-old TV star added, “To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with nikita, but of course, I will be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.”
Dyer was partnered with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin for the upcoming season, which is set to premiere this Saturday on BBC One, hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Sarah James, a BBC Executive Producer, stated, “dani has brought so much passion, joy and enthusiasm to Strictly, and her partnership with Nikita was off to the most sensational start. Everyone on the show is incredibly sad that she’s no longer able to compete in this year’s series. We send her all our love and best wishes for a swift recovery, and we very much hope to welcome her back to the ballroom in the future.”
Kuzmin has shared Dyer’s update on his Instagram page, prompting an outpouring of support from fellow Strictly Come Dancing professionals. Dianne Buswell commented, “I’m so sorry, Dani and Nikita. We will miss you so much.” Johannes Radebe added, “Gutted for you both. Take care of yourself.” Karen Hauer and head judge Shirley Ballas also expressed their condolences and wished Dyer a speedy recovery.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday at 6.55pm.
