A former Strictly Come Dancing star could be set to return to the dance floor, according to reports. While the show has undergone a significant shake-up for the upcoming series, speculation is mounting about a potential comeback for one celebrity.
A number of professional dancers have departed ahead of the new season. However, for one contestant whose previous stint was cut short due to injury, a second chance may be on the horizon.
Dani Dyer, the 29-year-old reality star and daughter of actor Danny Dyer, is reportedly ready to head back to the BBC contest. Last year, she was forced to withdraw just moments before the launch show was filmed after suffering a broken ankle in a sudden and dramatic exit.
Injury and Heartbreak
Dani injured her foot last year, ruling her out before the show even began. At the time, she confirmed her exit and explained: "I thought I had rolled my foot but it swelled up badly. After an MRI scan it turns out I have fractured my ankle. Apparently doing the quickstep on a fracture is not advisable."
She added: "It was so hard because I was having the best time of my life. [After I quit] I couldn’t leave the house, because I knew if someone said to me, ‘Are you OK?’, I’d just cry. It’s been really testing my mental health."
Talks for a Return
Now, reports suggest she is in negotiations for another go. A source told The Sun: "Dani was beyond gutted when she had to quit Strictly. She never got a chance to do a single show or a dance for the judges so when the door was opened for her again by the BBC she jumped at the chance. Dani hasn’t signed her contract yet but she’s clearing her diary and has told the BBC she wants in."
The insider described any potential return as a "dream come true" for the former Love Island star. "She is determined to get on the dance floor and show the viewers what she’s made of," they said.
Teasing a Comeback
Earlier this month, Dani appeared to hint at her return. When asked if she would come back this year, she admitted: "It’s up to them. It’s a magical thing to do, so we’ll have to see when they start casting. But yeah absolutely – who could say no to Strictly?"
However, she is also busy filming the second series of The Dyers’ Caravan Park with her father Danny, who is reprising his role as tycoon Freddie Jones in Disney+ show Rivals. Speaking of her dad's part, she proudly said: "It’s been amazing. Everyone loves Fred-Fred, don’t they? I feel like people have really recognised him as an actor, and he deserves it. He’s killing it in life at the minute."
Describing Danny as a grandfather, she added: "He’s the softest person. He’s so sweet, and the best storyteller. It must be the actor in him."
