Much-loved Neighbours star Stefan Dennis has shared a heartbreaking statement following his sudden departure from the UK reality series Strictly Come Dancing.
The Australian actor, best known for his long-running role as Paul Robinson on the now-axed soap, was forced to withdraw from the competition over the weekend after sustaining a serious injury.
“This morning I woke up to the most disappointing day of the time in my Strictly journey,” Dennis wrote in a statement on X.
“Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing in the comp and achieve more great dances along the way, I was told that on Saturday I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show.”
The 66-year-old said he was devastated to leave the competition after just four weeks, and saddened to say goodbye to his professional dance partner, fellow Australian Dianne Buswell.
“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,” he continued.
“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. Fun fact for all the avid Neighbours fans … it’s the same leg!”
His light-hearted reference nods to his on-screen alter ego Paul Robinson, who famously had his left leg amputated after falling from a cliff in the long-running series.
Buswell, 36, praised Dennis for his resilience and positive spirit despite the setbacks he faced throughout the competition.
“Stefo I’m so sorry our Strictly journey was cut short just as that confidence was starting to grow. But you can walk away with your head held high,” she wrote on Instagram.
“You can go home to your wonderful wife, put your hand out and say would you like to cha cha cha with me. The main reason for being on this show was to be able to dance with her and you can certainly do that now.
“You are the kindest human I have ever worked with and I can always say I got to dance with the iconic Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis – or as my dad calls ya, Paul Robertson. Can’t wait for you to send me the video of you and Gail dancing together.”
Buswell, who previously appeared on So You Think You Can Dance Australia and Dancing with the Stars Australia, is the reigning Strictly Come Dancing champion, having won last year alongside British comedian Chris McCausland.
Dennis’ stint on the show came just two months after wrapping filming on Neighbours for the final time. Although the last-ever episode of the Australian soap is set to air in December, production concluded in July.
“Just want to say a huge heartfelt thank you to everyone that has been on board the good ship @neighbours for the last 40 years,” Dennis wrote on Instagram, sharing a video of himself walking down Ramsay Street for the final time.
“Yesterday I said goodbye to a phenomenon that has been two thirds of my life and a vast majority of my career life. It has genuinely been an honour and a privilege working with all the people on this marvellous show that has taken me on such a wonderful journey I had never considered.
“And my upmost gratitude to all of our loyal fans out there. You have kept the show alive through thick and thin. Thank you everyone. I will remember and cherish it all forever.”
Images: X (formerly Twitter)
