Strictly contingency plans reportedly in place as Dianne Buswell prepares to dance while pregnant

Strictly Come Dancing producers are adjusting plans for this series as they navigate Dianne Buswell's pregnancy. The professional dancer, 36, is expecting her first child and is due to welcome a baby boy in early 2026, according to multiple media reports. She has been paired with Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis, 66, for the show's current run, with the finale slated for December.

Buswell publicly shared the pregnancy last week, and the couple—herself and partner Joe Sugg, 34—announced they are expecting a son. The news comes as the star prepares to perform on the BBC competition later this year, raising questions about how a dancer could continue through late pregnancy given the schedule.

A Sun source said producers have contingency plans in place and that several pro dancers could step in if needed to keep the show moving. The source added that the BBC welfare team would maintain regular check-ins to safeguard Buswell's health and wellbeing.

Not all outlets agreed. A Daily Mail source pushed back, saying the story 'makes something out of nothing' and that contingency plans have long existed for all contestants, arguing that the coverage was misleading to imply new plans were being created for Buswell.

Buswell has captivated fans with a string of pregnancy posts and moments, including a launch-night reveal video set to Elton John's Tiny Dancer, in which she and Joe Sugg staged an easel moment and revealed two stick figures—one with Buswell's flaming red hair—holding hands with a baby, signaling the couple's joy over the pending arrival.

The couple has been open about their plans to start a family. In May, Buswell spoke of her desire to become a mother, describing it as a lifelong goal and acknowledging the rigors of the show as a factor in timing. Their announcement of a baby boy came amid public speculation about how Buswell would balance training and performances with pregnancy.

Strictly's 2025 lineup features a diverse group of celebrities, from Olympic sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey to actors and reality stars. The cast's breadth underscores the show's ongoing ability to adapt to personal milestones while delivering the competition that fans expect.

Given the December finale and the early 2026 due date, producers have indicated that the show must go on although adjustments could be made if Buswell remains on the floor close to her delivery. The experience of last year, when Buswell won the Glitterball Trophy with partner Chris McCausland, has underscored her ability to perform under demanding conditions and to strike a balance between career milestones and family plans.

Fans and colleagues alike have offered congratulations and messages of support as Buswell prepares for a busy year ahead. The show continues to emphasize safety and welfare, with the production team publicly reaffirming that health remains the top priority for any participant navigating pregnancy while competing.

In the coming weeks, viewers will see how the production team handles scheduling, rehearsals, and live performances as Buswell progresses toward her due date. The broader industry will watch closely to see how major entertainment franchises adapt to similar scenarios, balancing public interest with the personal lives and health of their stars.