Strictly’s Dianne Buswell has returned to Strictly after the epic BBC final (Image: Instagram)

Dianne Buswell has jetted back to Australia after the Strictly Come Dancing final wrapped up over the weekend. The professional dancer has been looking back on another unforgettable series as numerous contestants and professionals gear up for the forthcoming Strictly Live Tour in the new year.

Last year’s Strictly champion was usurped last weekend when football pundit Karen Carney was crowned the latest winner, alongside professional dance partner Carlos Gu. She triumphed over Amber Davies and social media star George Clarke in the grand final. Following her win, Karen gushed: “I just want to say thank you to everybody who has supported our journey, and supported us. Thank you to this wonderful gentleman. We are a team, and I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Numerous Strictly stars can now take a well-earned rest over the Christmas period, before the Strictly Live Tour 2026 kicks off across the UK in January and February. To mark the festive celebration, Dianne will be reuniting with her family Down Under, reports the Liverpool Echo.

On Instagram, the dancer shared a series of snaps from the Strictly final, supported by her partner Joe Sugg who cheered her on during her concluding performance of the series.

She wrote alongside the post: “Another year around the strictly glitterball and and massive congrats to the new champs. It was such a brilliant final, congrats to each and every one of you.

“Our Strictly legends Tess and Claudia, thank you for being so kind, funny, and caring to us all. We are all going to miss you both so. Stefan Dennis, my Aussie partner, thank you for making my accent a little stronger for a few weeks, and thank you for your hard work and kindness. Also, when else would I ever be able to do a foxtrot to the neighbours’ theme tune?”

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The Australian dancer competed with fellow Aussie Stefan Dennis this year (Image: StefanDennis7 Instagram)

Dianne’s heartfelt message went on to describe the series as “magical” as she performed whilst expecting her first child. She revealed: “Little boy’s CV so far: Danced with Steps, Lewis Capaldi, Kylie Minogue, and Five. We are currently en route to Australia, so stay tuned for some Mark and Rina content.”

Fellow Strictly professional Vito Coppola posted a touching tribute to Dianne, hailing her as an “amazing woman” who gave her all throughout the competition.

He wrote: “You are the example of a person to follow, and that’s why we all love you so much, because you are an inspiration and a superwoman! You have the power of a lion and the heart of a lamb, and that’s why you are unique. I am beyond proud and very grateful to have found a friend, a sister, and family in you.”

The emotional tribute concluded: “Have a beautiful Xmas and a happy new year. Love and hugs to all your family, and I am looking forward to meeting your little boy; he is going to have the craziest Italian uncle… zio Vito.”

Responding to Dianne’s social media update, Carlos Gu penned: “Thank you, sista, for passing the crown to us! I love you,” whilst Amy Dowden posted love heart emojis.

Additional reactions featured: “Loved seeing you dancing, growing and glowing as the weeks passed, women’s bodies are incredible, and you showed everyone that” and “Loved seeing you dancing, growing and glowing as the weeks passed, women’s bodies are incredible, and you showed everyone that.”