Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell has spoken out on It Takes Two after her celebrity partner Stefan Dennis was forced to withdraw from the competition.

On Wednesday's episode of Strictly Come Dancing's It Takes Two, BBC presenter Janette Manrara spoke with Dianne Buswell and Stefan Dennis following his departure from the show.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that the Aussie actor had to bow out of the competition due to an injury.

However, some online speculation suggested that the early exit was 'planned' because of professional dancer Dianne's, 36, pregnancy.

Before the series kicked off, Dianne shared on social media that she was expecting her first child with partner Joe Sugg, who she met on the BBC show in 2018 when they were dance partners.

While chatting with host Janette on the BBC programme, Dianne swiftly addressed rumours that Stefan's exit was linked to her, reports Wales Online.

Janette asked Dianne: "You must be gutted about leaving the competition as well.

"There's been a lot of chat online about the reasons behind why Stefan left. But, is there anything that you'd like to add about saying goodbye?"

Dianne responded: "Yeah, obviously, it's definitely not a conspiracy theory. I feel great! Obviously, I would love to continue with Stefan."

Addressing her partner, she said: "I wish you the best in your recovery, and I would say you were absolutely phenomenal. I enjoyed my time with you so, so, so much! But I'm very proud of you."

Dianne pointed out that Stefan brought a touch of home to the show, as both hail from Australia.

She added: "I appreciate that so much it's the first time I've ever had a fellow Aussie dance with me and I've really enjoyed it, honestly. I really have, thank you."

The duo secured Stefan's best performance of the series on Saturday evening, earning an impressive total of 26 points from the judging panel.

Dianne highlighted her pride in Stefan's journey, having witnessed his self-assurance flourish during his stint on the programme.

Janette assured Stefan he could depart the BBC programme with his head held high as he said: "That was tremendous, if they'd have given me five I still would've been happy, only because I thought that dance was absolutely brilliant, we just had the best fun."

Strictly's Dianne Buswell forced to shut down 'conspiracy theory' over Stefan Dennis exit - Daily Star