Strictly Shock: Amy Dowden Heartbroken as Two Stars Make Sudden Exit from 2025 Series

The glittering journey on Strictly Come Dancing has come to an abrupt halt for two beloved stars, leaving fans stunned and fellow dancers emotional.

Strictly pro Amy Dowden spoke out after the bombshell news that her fellow cast members, Stefan Dennis of Neighbours fame and professional dancer Dianne Buswell, have withdrawn from the BBC show mid-series. On Monday, viewers were blindsided when Stefan and Dianne—known affectionately as “Team Australia”—announced they were out of the competition following a serious injury to Stefan.

Stefan, who had missed a recent live episode due to illness, shared the heartbreaking update on social media:

his morning, I woke up to the most disappointing day of my Strictly journey. Just as I’d finally found the confidence to perform and chase new milestones, I was told Saturday that I’d suffered a severe calf tear and now have to withdraw,” he wrote. Thousands of devastated fans flooded the comments with messages of support and sad goodbyes to the duo.

Amy Dowden, currently paired with Tom Skinner, joined the chorus of well-wishers:

“My heart breaks for you both. Sending all my love and best wishes xxxx.”

Fellow pros Lauren Oakley and Karen Hauer echoed the sentiment, wishing Stefan a speedy recovery and sending love to “Team Australia.”

One fan summed up the mood: “So sad, I loved Team Australia. Wishing Stefan a quick recovery.”

Another added: “Gutted. Watching Stefan and Dianne together was such a joy—Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!”

Stefan continued his emotional farewell:

“I can’t express how sad I am to leave so soon, especially after all the love and support people have shown Dianne and me. I’m forever grateful to the Strictly family and to Dianne for letting me live my dance dream—(when my leg heals, that is).”

In a touching nod to his iconic Neighbours role, he quipped: “Fun fact for die-hard Neighbours fans—it’s the same leg!”

Dianne Buswell also paid tribute to Stefan:

“Stefo, I’m so sorry our Strictly journey ended just as your confidence was blooming. But you can walk tall, go home to your amazing wife, and ask, ‘Want to dance the cha cha cha with me?’ That’s what this show is all about—and you did it. You’re the kindest soul I’ve worked with, and I’ll always treasure dancing with the legend Stefan Dennis—aka Paul Robinson, as my dad calls you.”

As Strictly’s 2025 series continues, fans and cast alike are mourning the loss of Team Australia, but the love and support pouring in proves their glitterball dreams won’t soon be forgotten