Dani Dyer has been forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing after suffering a fractured ankle in rehearsals, just days before the first live show of the 2025 series.
The 28-year-old former Love Island winner was among the 15 celebrities unveiled during the launch show on Saturday, where it was announced she would be paired with fan-favourite professional Nikita Kuzmin.
Viewers saw the duo take to the dancefloor for the first time in the traditional group number, with excitement building for their debut routine this coming weekend.
However, on Tuesday Dyer confirmed she has been left unable to continue in the competition after injuring herself in training last week.
Explaining what happened, she said: “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 and 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 l’ve had to pull out of the show.
“To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will of course be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.”
Strictly’s executive producer Sarah James paid tribute to Dyer, praising the energy she had brought to rehearsals. She said: “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.”
The BBC also confirmed the news on Strictly’s official social media accounts, writing: “Unfortunately due to an injury Dani Dyer is no longer able to compete in #Strictly 2025. She’ll be sorely missed and we wish her a speedy recovery.”
Her fellow Strictly stars quickly rallied around her online. Professional dancer Dianne Buswell wrote: “I’m so sorry Dani and Nikita. We will miss you so much.” Amy Dowden added: “Sending you so much love and a speedy recovery @danidyerxx absolutely gutted for you and @nikita__kuzmin.” Judge Shirley Ballas also sent a message of support, reminding Dyer that “health is most important,” while Nadiya Bychkova and Johannes Radebe both shared their sadness at the news.
Dyer’s exit comes as a huge blow to the BBC One series, which only launched this past weekend. It remains to be seen whether a replacement celebrity will be drafted in, or if the competition will continue with 14 contestants.
