Overview

• Dani Dyer-Bowen said she fractured her ankle in a rehearsal fall and is “heartbroken” to leave, as executive producer Sarah James wished her a swift recovery.
• The launch confirmed 15 pairings, now reduced to 14 contestants for Saturday’s first live show, and no replacement has been announced.
• Thomas Skinner, paired with Amy Dowden, drew fresh attention after an X post was widely read as hinting at a waltz for their debut routine.
• Skinner publicly responded to BBC presenter Peter Levy’s “feel sorry for Amy” comment, and bookmakers lengthened his odds following the launch.
• Several professionals are unpartnered this year—Nancy Xu, Luba Mushtuk, Neil Jones and Michelle Tsiakkas—but remain involved in group performances.