Strictly Come Dancing champion Dianne Buswell has been inundated with messages of love and support after sharing that she had suffered a family loss. The professional dancer, who joined the BBC programme back in 2017, shared the emotional news with her supporters on social media this weekend.
Dianne, 36, posted a touching video in memory of her later grandad, who she called “pop”. The video showed the moment she surprised her grandad in Australia after her triumphant Strictly 2024 win with comedian Chris McCausland, and was filmed by her boyfriend, Joe Sugg, who she previously competed on the show with.
In the clip, fans can see the sweet moment the pair laughed and danced together. The Instagram caption reads: “Rest in peace pop (heart emoji).
“You were 99 years young. Thank you for all the stories and I just know you will be up there dancing with Nan already.” In the comments section, many fans and fellow Strictly stars shared heartfelt messages of support.
Fellow professional Nancy Xu wrote : ‘D D Sending you all the love’. Johannes Radebe commented: “So sorry Dianne Darling.”
Jowita Przystal said: “Sending all my love to you and your family.” And Vito Coppola also shared his sympathies, posting a prayer hands emoji and a heart.
Many supporters also shared their condolences. One account wrote: “Sending all the love in the world to you and your family.” And another said: “So sorry about your lovely pop, love and hugs.”
The sad news comes a few months Dianne mourned the loss of her nan, who she revealed had died in early March.
Taking to Instagram on March 8, Dianne shared a video of herself and her Nan. She wrote: “Rest in peace nan. Love you very much. I’m so grateful I was home to say goodbye to such a special lady in my life. Now go be with pop he has been patiently waiting for you.”
A picture was also uploaded to Dianne’s Instagram story with the caption “RIP our beautiful nan” with the two holding hands. She also revealed how her nan was a big supporter of her and the career she has as a professional dancer. A video taken of a TV screen at her nan’s house showed the Strictly YouTube channels and her own as the most viewed.
Throughout her recent journey on Strictly, Chris and Dianne captured the nation’s heart and admiration. They entered the final as one of the most favoured couples in the show’s history, with betting odds indicating that they were the clear favourites to win – one bookmaker had them at 1/18 odds-on favourites to triumph.