Dani Dyer is set to return to the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing following last year’s premature exit due to a broken ankle. The reality star, who first gained public attention on Love Island, expressed deep gratitude and excitement upon learning she would have another opportunity to compete on the show.
Dyer fractured her ankle during a training session in September 2025 while paired with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin. The injury occurred shortly after the pre-recorded launch show, forcing her withdrawal before the competition began. After a period of recovery, Dyer spoke candidly about her hopes and apprehensions ahead of this year’s series, which kicks off this Saturday with 15 celebrities vying for the coveted glitterball trophy.
“I seriously couldn’t be more excited to join,” Dyer said, adding that she was moved to tears upon receiving the call to return. She acknowledged her previous injury made her uncertain about getting another chance but emphasized her eagerness to embrace the full Strictly experience this time around. Alongside excitement, she also described feeling nervous and emotional but remained determined: “I can’t wait to finally get the opportunity to properly experience Strictly… As long as I don’t trip over my own feet I will be happy.”
Dyer revealed that her primary concern remains avoiding another injury but stressed her commitment to self-care and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the competition. She also acknowledged the pressure of performing before the show’s judges—Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas—and admitted she tends to be self-critical.
The former Love Island star will draw on the support of her family and friends as she embarks on the series again. She highlighted the encouragement of her father, actor Danny Dyer; her mother, Jo; and her husband, West Ham footballer Jarrod Bowen. “They were absolutely buzzing,” she said of their reaction to her return. “They knew how much this meant to me.”
Dani also referenced advice from fellow reality star and last year’s Strictly contestant Vicky Pattison, who encouraged her to enjoy the experience and avoid placing too much pressure on herself. “Knowing how nervous she was at the start and how brilliantly she did has definitely given me a lot of confidence and inspiration,” Dyer commented.
The new cast of celebrities joining the show this year includes Australian singer Delta Goodrem, EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, and celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton. Dyer anticipates forming a close bond with her fellow participants, noting the unique camaraderie Strictly tends to foster.
With the launch show imminent, Dyer is ready to embrace all aspects of the competition, including the demanding rehearsals, performance nerves, and the chance to improve her dance skills in front of millions of viewers.