PREGNANT Dianne Buswell has hit back at conspiracy theories that claim Stefan Dennis’ illness is a “cover-up”.
It was revealed yesterday that the Neighbours legend, 66, would not be performing tonight after being unwell.

Dianne Buswell has hit back at conspiracy theories over Stefan’s illness[/caption]
Stefan has been advised to rest by doctors after falling ill this week[/caption]
As per the rules of Strictly, the couple has received a bye through to next week[/caption]
The soap star is paired with fellow Aussie Dianne, 36, who is pregnant with her first child.
But Strictly announced yesterday that the actor would not be part of tonight’s live show as he had been “ill”.
Since the news dropped, fans have gone into overdrive wit conspiracy theories about why they aren’t performing tonight.
This is despite the fact that the BBC said it was because he was ill.
Today, in a bid to shut down the rumours that Stefan‘s illness has been used as a “cover up” for her being unable to dance, Dianne took to Instagram and penned: “Just to clarify as I have had lots of people msg me thinking this is a cover up for me being not able to dance!?
“Firstly we wouldn’t lie especially about somebody being sick!
“And secondly I am fine, yes I am pregnant but I’m also very capable and feeling really good!”
Yesterday the BBC confirmed Stefan would not be dancing in a statement that read: “Due to illness over the past few days, Stefan Dennis has been advised by doctors to rest and as a result, he will not dance this weekend.
“In line with the rules of Strictly, Stefan and Dianne will receive a bye through to next week when they will hopefully be able to dance again.”
It means the couple will miss out on being part of Movie Week, where they were due to perform a Waltz to It Is You (I Have Loved) from Shrek.
Writing in the comments to the post on the official Strictly Instagram page, Dianne said: “Sending alll my Aussie love steffo I know how much you wanted to dance.”
On It Takes Two, host Janette Manrara also shared the news and added: “Stefan, we’re sending you our best wishes and can’t wait to have you back soon.”
Other Strictly stars also sent their best wishes to Stefan – who played Paul Robinson on Neighbours – with host Claudia Winkleman posting three red love hearts.
Meanwhile pro dancer Amy Dowden commented: “Sending lots of love and well wishes xxx.”
Fellow contestant Amber Davies added two red love hearts.
Last week, Stefan performed a mistake-filled Cha Cha Cha to Give It Up by KC and The Sunshine Band.
The judges panel gave a mixed review with Craig Revel Horwood branding the dance “stompy” and “stiff” whilst Anton Du Beke thought it was “very good” in places.
Stefan also went on to explain that even before stepping onto the floor he was ‘petrified’ admitting that the routine had completely ‘stumped’ him.
The pair ended up receiving a score of just 17 placing them as one of the lower scoring couples on this week’s leaderboard.
Strictly airs tonight on BBC One and iPlayer.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 lineup

Strictly Come Dancing news and the latest line up
- Nitro from Gladiators AKA Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will be using his athletic prowess to try to win over the judges.
- Doctor Who and ER star Alex Kingston will be adding some drama.
- Chris Robshaw, former Harlequins and England rugby captain will be tackling the dance floor.
- EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, who plays Suki Panesar, has moved from Walford to the ballroom.
- Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis has landed on the show from Down Under.
- George Clarke, a YouTube star, will also be showing off his moves.
- Love Island winner Amber Davies joined as a last minute replacement after Dani Dyer pulled out with injury.
- La Voix is the first drag star to join the main series
- Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink swaps is football boots for dancing shoes.
- Ellie Goldstein is the first contestant with Down’s Syndrome to take part.
- Thomas Skinner is swapping the boardroom for ballroom dancing.
- I’m A Celeb winner Vicky Pattison has been announced.
- Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope was announced as the last contestant after Game Of Thrones star Kristian Nairn pulled out of the show before the launch date over medical reasons.