As the excitement builds for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, fan-favourite Australian professional dancer Dianne Buswell has set tongues wagging with a tantalizing hint about her potential new dance partner. The anticipation is palpable as viewers eagerly await news of who will join the professional roster on the iconic ballroom floor this year.

During a recent candid discussion with comedian and former Strictly contestant Chris McCausland, Buswell openly shared her aspirations for the upcoming season. She sensationally claimed to have identified her ‘ideal candidate’ for a dance partnership, a revelation that instantly ignited fervent speculation among the show’s devoted fanbase and entertainment news outlets.

McCausland, who made history on Strictly Come Dancing as the show’s first blind contestant, achieved a remarkable victory alongside Dianne in a previous charity special. His insightful perspective during their conversation provided a perfect platform for Buswell’s intriguing tease, highlighting the unique dynamics and camaraderie often seen behind the scenes of the popular Strictly production.

When pressed by McCausland on whether this rumoured partner was a current or former cast member, Dianne cryptically referred to the individual as an ‘old veteran.’ This subtle clue immediately sent the podcast presenters into a flurry of guesses, attempting to decipher the identity of this mysterious figure from the Strictly Come Dancing universe, adding layers to the unfolding mystery.

While various names were put forward, including speculation around actor Ian Smith, Dianne eventually confirmed that the buzz was indeed about ‘Stefan.’ She emphatically stated he was ‘definitely’ the individual at the centre of the rumour, adding significant weight to earlier whispers about his potential involvement following the conclusion of Neighbours filming in Australia.

The timing of Stefan’s rumoured Strictly appearance aligns with the recent end of Neighbours production at Nunawading Studios, especially as the long-running soap prepares to broadcast its final episodes later this year after its unexpected discontinuation by Amazon. This development has fueled theories that Stefan is now free to commit to the rigorous demands of the competitive dance show.

Beyond Stefan, the celebrity rumour mill for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing lineup continues to churn with several prominent names. Among those frequently mentioned are EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, known for her role as Suki Panesar, alongside reality television personality Vicky Pattison, and former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan, indicating a strong female celebrity presence.

Further speculation includes businessman and former Apprentice hopeful Thomas Skinner, celebrated jockey Rachael Blackmore, beloved reality television personality Stacey Solomon, and Tom Parker Bowles, the distinguished son of Queen Camilla. Each of these rumoured participants brings their own unique public profile, promising an exciting and diverse cast ready to grace the famous Strictly dance floor.