Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell has shared a shocking revelation about a career-threatening injury that occurred during rehearsals with her celebrity partner, Neighbours star Stefan Dennis.
The popular dancer, known for her energetic performances and vibrant red hair, described the incident as "one of the most frightening moments" of her professional career. The injury was so severe that it nearly prevented her from continuing in the competition.
The Moment It Happened
During an intense rehearsal session preparing for their upcoming performance, Buswell experienced what she described as a "sudden, sharp pain" that immediately raised alarm bells. "I knew straight away this wasn't just a normal dance ache," she revealed. "This was something much more serious."
The Australian-born dancer, who has been part of Strictly since 2017, admitted she initially tried to push through the pain, not wanting to let her partner down. "As dancers, we're conditioned to work through discomfort, but this was different," Buswell explained.
Medical Emergency
The situation quickly escalated, requiring immediate medical attention. Production staff and the show's medical team were called to assess the injury, with concerns growing about whether Buswell would be able to continue in the competition.
"There were genuine fears that this could be career-ending," a source close to the production revealed. "The Strictly medical team doesn't take any risks with their dancers' health and wellbeing."
Stefan Dennis's Reaction
Her partner, Stefan Dennis - best known for playing Paul Robinson in Neighbours - was reportedly "devastated" and deeply concerned for Buswell's welfare. The actor, who was making his ballroom debut, had been enjoying the rehearsal process until the unexpected incident.
"Stefan was incredibly supportive throughout the whole ordeal," Buswell shared. "He kept checking on me and making sure I was okay, even when we weren't rehearsing."
The Road to Recovery
Despite the severity of the injury, Buswell has made a remarkable recovery and is determined to continue in the competition. She credits the Strictly medical team and her own resilience for getting her back on the dance floor.
"I'm not one to give up easily," the dancer stated. "This experience has taught me to listen to my body more carefully, but it hasn't dimmed my passion for dance or for Strictly."
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands and risks professional dancers face, even on a light entertainment show like Strictly Come Dancing.
