Stefan Dennis addressed his Strictly departure (Image: BBC)

Neighbours icon Stefan Dennis left Strictly Come Dancing fans shocked after announcing his premature departure from the star-studded BBC competition series. On Monday (October 20), the show confirmed that he and pro Dianne Buswell would no longer be in the running for the 2025 winner after the actor suffered a gruelling calf injury. After being inundated with well-wishes and messages of support from viewers and their co-stars, Stefan has finally broken his silence to reveal that he is gutted to be leaving the contest.

Thankfully for fans, the 66-year-old dropped a major spoiler and confirmed that he will soon be back on screens closer to the finale. Stefan stated: “It’s a bit of a s****er, but I’ll be back at the end of the year, for the final.” As for those who suggested he could re-apply for the 2026 series, the star said: “I’ve done too much to come back and try again next year.” In his Strictly announcement, the Paul Robinson star said that he tore his muscles during the Saturday live show and was told he was unable to continue.

Read more: Dianne Buswell breaks silence as she’s forced to quit Strictly 2025

Read more: Amy Dowden ‘gutted’ as Strictly star quits midway through 2025 series

Stefan’s earlier announcement read: “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.”

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).”

Dianne and Stefan have spoken out about their exit (Image: BBC)

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!”

One of Stefan’s main storylines in the beloved soap culminated in him having his leg amputated after an accident.

Following their live show performance on Saturday, the duo were awarded 26 points out of 40 after dancing the Charleston to Dance Monkey by Tones And I.

Before their departure, Stefan and Dianne were expected to return to the dancefloor to perform the Jive to Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys.

Despite his injury, the actor put on a brave face as he attended the star-studded Pride of Britain awards in London alongside Dianne