19 December 2023 , 11:18
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Strictly Come Dancing professional Dianne Buswell has made an emotional return to her native Australia to spend time with her cancer-stricken dad, Mark.
Alongside her EastEnders partner Bobby Brazier, the 34-year old missed out on lifting the BBC show's Glitterball Trophy on Saturday as Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola were crowned this year's champions. Earlier in the series Dianne broke down in tears after revealing her dad's diagnosis and shared her joy every time he sent her a supportive video message as she longed to be back with her family.
Dianne had sparked concern from fans with her comments as she described partner Bobby as her "rock" and said she'd endured an "emotional week" running up to the final. She candidly addressed the worry, admitting: "I thought I would be very upfront and honest with you all. Last week I got some news about my dad’s health and I won’t go into detail, but obviously, that affected me. Being away from home and not being able to support and help your family in a time of need is quite a difficult thing so I did struggle a little bit last week in terms of that."
Dianne opened up on Mark's diagnosis earlier in the Strictly series (Instagram/diannebuswell)
Dianne described Bobby as her "rock" in the wake of Mark's diagnosis (Instagram/diannebuswell)Now, following her flight Down Under, the dancer has shared a sweet snap of the pair enjoying a drink together. "And from the concert to having our first morning coffee. I'm home @mark.3802," she penned to her 993,000 Instagram followers.
One fan responded: "What a stressful time for you, you’re just amazing getting through it all and still with a smile, you’ve sure got some strength and stamina well done you." Another added: "My heart is full! So happy for you Di. Have the most special time. I know how much this will mean to you."
EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness
A third wrote: "Love this for you both can tell it’s just what you both needed. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas break." And a fourth said: "Awww so happy for you Dianne ! Enjoy your time back with your family! Sending your dad so much love xx."
Earlier this month Dianne revealed more details in how 20-year old Bobby had been there for her. She told Heat Magazine: "I am such a hard-working, crazy dancer that it's been a really nice balance, where Bobby has brought a lot of calmness into my life. There has been quite a lot of going on in my personal life over these past few months, and Bobby has been really realistic and supportive, telling me everything's going to be OK," she explained.
"It's crazy that such a young guy can have such a good mind on him. Being away from home and not being able to support and help your family in a time of need is quite a difficult thing so I did struggle a little bit."
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