Neighbours star Stefan Dennis has pulled out of Strictly Come Dancing following an injury to his calf.
The Australian actor, 66, who was paired with professional dancer Dianne Buswell on the BBC One show, was unable to perform on Saturday 11 October because of illness, but he returned last weekend and scored 26 for a Charleston to Tones and I's Dance Monkey.
In a social media post, Dennis 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 in the competition and achieve more great dances along the way, I was told that on Saturday I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show.
"I can't tell you how devastated I am to have to leave so prematurely especially as there has been, and still is, so much love and support from everyone for both Dianne and myself."
"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)," Dennis added.
Saluting Dennis on Instagram, the BBC One show said: "We have loved watching Stefan and Dianne create magic on the dance floor with their Team Aussie energy. He will be sorely missed by the entire #Strictly family."
Dennis, who is best known for playing Paul Robinson on the Australian soap Neighbours, is married to fellow actor Gail Easdale.
In another social media post, Australian dancer Buswell said: "Stefo I'm so sorry our Strictly journey was cut short just as that confidence was starting to grow.
"But you can walk away with your head held high. You can go home to your wonderful wife put your hand out and say would you like to cha cha cha with me.
"The main reason for being on this show was to be able to dance with her and you can certainly do that now.
"You are the kindest human I have ever worked with and I can always say I got to dance with the iconic Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis or as my dad calls ya Paul Robertson."
"Can't wait for you to send me the video of you and Gail dancing together," Buswell added.
Buswell won Strictly last year alongside comedian Chris McCausland, who became the first blind person to take home the glitterball trophy.
The dancer recently announced she is pregnant with her first child with partner and YouTube star Joe Sugg, who she met on the show in 2018.
Sarah James, executive producer, BBC Studios, said: "We've adored having Stefan on Strictly Come Dancing, and are heartbroken that his Strictly journey - and his fantastic partnership with Dianne Buswell - has been cut short.
"It's been a joy to see him embrace the series with such enthusiasm and we really hope that, once better, he will keep dancing."
Source: Press Association
