Stefan Dennis, the Neighbours actor, has withdrawn from Strictly Come Dancing after tearing his calf muscle. The news was announced on Monday's episode of It Takes Two by host Fleur East.
Dennis, 66, sustained the injury during Saturday's performance, which earned him his highest score of 26. In a statement read by East, Dennis expressed his devastation at having to leave the competition prematurely.
He said: 'This morning, I woke up to the most disappointing day of my time in my Strictly journey. Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing ... I was told that on Saturday, I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw.'
Dennis thanked the Strictly family and his dance partner Dianne Buswell for their support, adding: '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 (when my leg is better).'
Fleur East said: 'We're really going to miss you, Stefan, and we look forward to chatting to you and Dianne on our sofa this Wednesday for a final goodbye.' Fellow contestants and fans have sent messages of support, with Amy Dowden calling it 'gutted for you both'.
