Strictly contingency plans in place as Dianne Buswell competes while pregnant
Pregnant Strictly pro Dianne Buswell is set to dance with Stefan Dennis while expecting her first child, with plans to safeguard her health and a potential back-up ready if needed.
Strictly Come Dancing has contingency plans in place for pregnant pro Dianne Buswell as she prepares to compete with Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis, with her first child due in early 2026.
Buswell, 36, revealed last week that she and boyfriend Joe Sugg, 34, are expecting their first child together—a baby boy. The couple were announced as partners ahead of the current series, with Buswell paired with Dennis.
A source told The Sun that producers have plans in place and that several pros could step in at a moment’s notice if needed, because the show must go on. The BBC welfare team is also expected to provide regular check-ins to support Buswell’s health and wellbeing throughout the competition.
A separate Daily Mail source pushed back on the notion that the contingency arrangements are unique to Buswell, saying the show has long had backup planning in place for contestants and that the current report should not be interpreted as a new policy.
With Buswell’s due date targeted for early 2026 and the Strictly final not until December, there is a possibility she could continue dancing up to near her due date, depending on her health and the progression of the competition.
Ahead of the launch show, Buswell posted a glamorous Instagram image showing her in a sparkling silver dress with blue tassels, blue confetti drifting around her, and a blue eyeliner look. The post was interpreted by fans as a nod to the baby boy she and Sugg are expecting and to the start of her ninth Strictly season.
The couple announced their pregnancy in a video set to Elton John’s Tiny Dancer, in which they revealed a canvas drawing of two stick figures holding hands and the words that they are expecting their first child, due in 2026, with the caption, Our little baby boy ❤️ we cannot wait to meet you.
Sugg and Buswell have been a couple since they were paired on Strictly Come Dancing in 2018. Buswell has previously won the Glitterball Trophy with partner Chris McCausland in 2023, and she has spoken publicly about balancing the demands of a high-profile entertainment career with family plans.
The 2025 Strictly lineup features a diverse group of celebrities, including Olympic sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston, EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, drag performer La Voix, reality and sports figures such as Thomas Skinner, Vicky Pattison, Karen Carney, George Clarke, Dani Dyer, and former players and broadcasters, among others. Stefan Dennis, best known for his long-running soap role, is listed as Buswell’s partner for the season, underscoring the format’s blend of sport, acting and reality personalities.
BBC officials have stressed that the welfare of performers remains a priority and that any schedule adjustments would be made with health considerations in mind. As the season progresses, producers are expected to provide ongoing updates on flight plans and rehearsal access in coordination with Buswell’s medical guidance and the show’s welfare team.