Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell has been praised by fans after giving a glimpse of what her return to the live shows has been like as a new mum. The dancer was back in the ballroom as the BBC One contest went live for the first time on Saturday night (September 26), following the pre-recorded launch show that revealed her pairing with radio and TV host Will Best for the 2026 series.
Opening week one with a samba
The pair opened week one of the competition, with all 15 new celebrities and their professional partners performing a full routine in front of the judges for the first time. Big Brother presenter Will and Dianne danced a samba to Rock DJ by Robbie Williams, earning 18 points out of a possible 40 from judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke.
A mid-show pump break
After the show, Dianne took to Instagram to explain why she had to step away briefly during the live broadcast. Sharing a selfie on her Instagram Story, she wrote: "Had to go a do a mid-show pump!" The Australian dancer gave birth to her first child with YouTube star Joe Sugg earlier this year, and was pregnant during the 2025 run of the competition after announcing the pregnancy just before that series began. Their son Bowden arrived in March.
Fans share their support
Strictly fans were quick to share their praise. @DebbieBlackma14 said: "Great to have Dianne back dancing and fair play to Will for opening the whole series #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly." @Kendal_ commented: "My Dianne goggles are firmly on. She looks incredible #Strictly." @Carlee3091 added: "In awe of this woman…"
