HEARTBREAKING: Pregnant Strictly star Dianne Buswell dealt major blow after pulling out of show

Strictly Come Dancing’s Dianne Buswell and Stefan Dennis sparked concern after they were forced to pull out of the live show on October 11 due to illness.

In a statement, the show confirmed the pair wouldn’t be performing during the Movie Week due to Stefan being unwell.

The pair have been given a pass to the next live show on October 18, in accordance with the show’s rules. Claudia announced at the beginning of the live show that the pair were not there, as she said: “Stefan and Dianne aren’t with us, Stefan has been unwell this week and was advised not to dance by the medical team, as per the rules they’ll get a bye through to next Saturday. We are all wishing you Stefan a very speedy recovery.”

Express columnist Debbie McGee has shared her thoughts on the pair’s absence, as she admitted it was noticeable during the show.

She said in her column: “I really missed seeing Stefan and Dianne on my screen this weekend. I think everyone has been watching Dianne to see how she is coping with her pregnancy during the series, so I hope she is doing well. I think her and Stefan have got such a lovely connection.”

She also shared her worries for the pair, as she said: “My biggest concern is that it can be hard to come back after a week off. You’ve lost of the flow of rehearsals, when you’re doing something everyday your brain and body clicks in, and it can be hard to get that back. To have a week off, you can lose the muscle memory, so I really hope he comes back fighting fit and nothing will have been lost. I think people have been enjoying watching them, and will want to see them do well.”

Following the announcement, Dianne was forced to speak out, as she addressed rumours that she was not capable of dancing due to her pregnancy. On her Instagram Story, she said: “Just to clarify I’ve had lots of people messaging me thinking this is a cover up for me not being able to dance?!

“Firstly, we wouldn’t lie, especially about someone being sick. And secondly, I am fine. Yes I am pregnant, but I’m also very capable and feeling good!”

She continued: “Thirdly, there are things in place if any pros were to get sick or injured.”

Meanwhile, Debbie has also shared her disappointment after finding out who would be leaving on Sunday’s show, saying: “I’m gutted, but I can’t help feeling like it was on the cards. I think the judges are always looking at who has the potential to improve, and they probably weren’t one of the people who would be getting much better.

“But it has been so nice seeing them on TV as they’re a friend of mine, and they definitely gave it their best shot. They put themselves out of their comfort zone and had a great experience, as well as doing their best. That’s all you can ask of yourself.”

Strictly continues on Saturday October 18 on BBC1.