Strictly Come Dancing seeks replacement for Dani Dyer after injury

Dani Dyer, a former Love Island winner and contestant on the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing, was forced to withdraw from the competition after fracturing her ankle during rehearsals. She shared her heartbreak over having to pull out and expressed her intention to support the show from the sidelines. Discussions about her replacement have circulated, with reports suggesting that actress Tillie Amartey, known for her role in Waterloo Road and participation in the 2023 Strictly Christmas special, might fill the vacancy to maintain gender balance among contestants. However, BBC officials and sources close to the production have denied that any decision has been made regarding Dani's replacement, stating that Tillie has not been contacted and that it is still unclear if the show will bring in a new contestant. Fellow Strictly star Ross King expressed sympathy for Dani's injury and highlighted the physical demands of the show. The BBC has left the door open for Dani to return in future seasons, while also noting another contestant, Kristian Nairn, withdrew earlier for medical reasons.