Dani Dyer 'heartbroken' as she's forced to withdraw from Strictly Come Dancing

Dani Dyer will no longer compete in the new series of Strictly Come Dancing after sustaining a nasty injury during training. The former Love Island star, who is the daughter of EastEnders actor Danny Dyer, released an alarming statement this evening, explaining she's been left "heartbroken" over the tough decision.

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. 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 I've had to pull out of the show."

The 29-year-old TV star added: "To say I'm heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita, but of course, I will be watching closely and cheering all the couples on."

Dani was set to dance for this weekend's first live show with her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin as the 2025 series officially starts on Saturday evening on BBC One for an all-new season hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.

Sarah James, a BBC Executive Producer, said of the sad news: "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."

Nikita, 27, has yet to release a statement following the crushing blow just days before Saturday's live show, but he has shared Dani's update on his Instagram page, with Strictly Come Dancing stars flocking to the comments section to send their condolences.

Fellow pro dancer Dianne Buswell said: "I'm so sorry, Dani and Nikita. We will miss you so much." Pro Johannes Radebe added, "Gutted for you both. Take care of yourself."

Karen Hauer said, with a crying emoji, "Oh darling, nooo. I'm so sorry. I wish you a speedy recovery."

Meanwhile, head judge Shirley Ballas penned: "I'm so so sorry. But health is most important. Get well soon, Angel."

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday at 6.55pm.