Reality Star Dani Dyer Set for Strictly Come Dancing Comeback
Reality television personality Dani Dyer is officially slated to compete on the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing, marking a return to the ballroom a year after an injury forced her withdrawal. Dyer, a well-known figure from Love Island, has been confirmed as one of the celebrities participating in the 2026 series, joining fellow newcomer Lacey Turner, a celebrated actress from EastEnders.
Speculation about Dyer’s potential return to the popular dance competition had been circulating for some time, particularly following her previous endeavor being cut short. The mother of three was a contestant in the 2025 series but had to withdraw before the inaugural live show due to a fractured ankle sustained during rehearsals. Her initial partnership was with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin, with whom she performed a quickstep in the first live broadcast.
Sources close to the situation indicated last month that Dyer was eager for another opportunity to showcase her dancing abilities. “To get a second chance to appear on Strictly is a dream come true for her,” a source revealed. “The first time around she was paired with Nikita Kuzmin and she hopes she will get him again. She is determined to get on the dancefloor and show the viewers what she’s made of.”
Recalling the Injury and Withdrawal
In late September of the previous year, Dyer publicly confirmed her departure from Strictly Come Dancing. In a statement, she described herself as “heartbroken” after medical professionals advised against her participation. She explained the incident occurred during Friday rehearsals, where she experienced a fall that resulted in an awkward landing on her foot.
Initially believing she had merely rolled her foot, Dyer noted significant swelling over the weekend. An MRI scan subsequently revealed a fractured ankle. “Apparently doing the Quickstep on a fracture is not advisable and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance, so I’ve had to pull out of the show,” Dyer stated at the time. “To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will of course be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.”
