Former Love Island star Dani Dyer has quit Strictly Come Dancing ahead of this weekend’s first live show.

It is understood the 29-year-old, who had been a favourite among the line-up, was forced to step away after fracturing her ankle.

The reality star shared the unfortunate news on Tuesday, mere days before the first live show.

She explained in a statement: “I had a fall on Friday in rehearsals and landed funny. I thought I had rolled my foot but it swelled up badly over the weekend and after an MRI scan yesterday, it turns out I have fractured my ankle.

“Apparently doing the quickstep on a fracture is not advisable (!!) and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance so l’ve had to pull out of the show.

“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.”

Executive producer Sarah James commented: “Dani has brought so much passion, joy and enthusiasm to Strictly, and her partnership with Nikita was off to the most sensational start.

“Everyone on the show is incredibly sad that she’s no longer able to compete in this year’s series.

“We send her all our love and best wishes for a swift recovery, and we very much hope to welcome her back to the ballroom in the future.”

Sharing the statements on its official Instagram page, a BBC Strictly caption read: “Unfortunately due to an injury Dani Dyer is no longer able to compete in #Strictly 2025. She’ll be sorely missed and we wish her a speedy recovery.”

Strictly dancers, co-stars and fans rushed to the comments section to express their sadness and wish Ms Dyer a speedy recovery.

Professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova shared: “What a sad news. get well soon @danidyerxx sending you lots of love.”

Likewise, Amy Dowden penned: “Sending you so much love and a speedy recovery @danidyerxx absolutely gutted for you and @nikita__kuzmin.”

Michelle Tsiakkas, who starred in last year’s show alongside Jamie Borthwick, wrote: “I’m so sorry Dani and Nikita… Wishing you a speedy recovery xx.”

Dianne Buswell added: “I’m so sorry Dani and Nikita. We will miss you so much xx.”

One fan asked: “How come she can’t just rest the injury? No one gets eliminated first 2 weeks anyway? Surely can’t pull out of the whole show before it’s even started.”

Others had questions about whether or not Mr Kuzmin would continue with another partner, as has happened in previous series.

One asked: “Who will be her replacement?” while another shared: “Oh nooooo. Hope Nikita gets a new celebrity partner.”

“Omg I feel terrible for her so so gutted!! Hope you’re okay angel,” one more wrote. (sic)