Strictly's Motsi Mabuse hits back after Dianne Buswell leaves viewers 'uncomfortable'

Motsi Mabuse has fired back at Strictly Come Dancing viewers who have complained about Dianne Buswell performing with Stefan Dennis, after the professional dancer confirmed she's expecting her first baby, a boy, with boyfriend Joe Sugg.

Responding to fans who are "uncomfortable" with Dianne still competing in the BBC show, Strictly judge Motsi urged them to "let the woman dance".

Speaking to The Sun's Fabulous Magazine, Motsi shared her excitement for Dianne and Joe, while also reflecting on her own decision to keep dancing while pregnant with her daughter.

• Midsomer Murders star shares personal message from John Nettles after tragedy
• Sharon Osbourne supported by her kids as she makes rare appearance at touching Ozzy mural

She explained: “We had a dancer on Let’s Dance in Germany who was pregnant with twins, and they danced the whole time.

“My doctor said to me: ‘You’re not sick, you’re pregnant.’ I danced until the baby came! Well, not quite, but we all do it. Our bodies can do it.

"As long as the doctors thinks she is fine, let the woman dance! Dianne just has to trust her body and know what she is capable of. It’s lovely news. A Strictly baby is a blessing.”

Dianne has addressed the criticism herself in recent weeks, posting one of many negative comments that she had received on Instagram.

The remark read: "I don't want to see her dance being pregnant, it's already feeling uncomfortable and she's only starting to show. It's not appropriate."

Dianne hit back at the social media user on the post, writing: "I can't believe in 2025 things like this are still being said."

Dianne and Stefan were unable to perform this weekend on Strictly due to the Neighbours actor being unwell.

The BBC shared the news in a statement earlier this week, saying: "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."