Sarah Jayne Dunn'S Strictly Come Dancing Dreams Put On Hold

Sarah Jayne Dunn's Strictly Disappointment

Sarah Jayne Dunn, the beloved ex-Hollyoaks star, has shared her heartache over not being selected for this year's Strictly Come Dancing. Despite her enthusiastic campaign to join the BBC's dazzling dance show, Sarah's hopes were dashed as she learned she wasn't part of the 2026 line-up. Yet, the 44-year-old remains optimistic and continues to dream of one day waltzing onto that iconic dance floor.

"Well, this chapter didn’t end the way I’d hoped. Of course I’m disappointed. I wanted this more than I can put into words," Sarah expressed on Instagram.

The former soap star took to social media to reflect on her journey, revealing the strength she found in vocalizing her dreams. Her candid Instagram post, filled with gratitude for the overwhelming support she's received, underlines her determination to keep manifesting her Strictly ambition. "Over the last few months, I’ve been overwhelmed by your support," she added, highlighting the encouragement from fans and media alike.

Manifesting a Future on Strictly

Sarah, who played Mandy Richardson on Hollyoaks until her departure in 2021, remains undeterred by this setback. Despite being dropped from the show after joining OnlyFans, Sarah has been fervently pursuing her Strictly dream and isn't ready to give up just yet. With a positive outlook, she continues to manifest her place on a future series of the dance competition.

She concluded her heartfelt message with a reminder that dreams don't always follow our timelines but that doesn't mean they're unattainable. "So no, I won’t be stepping onto the dance floor this year. But I also won’t be quietly talking myself out of the possibility that one day I will," Sarah affirmed.

A Glimpse of Hope

Earlier this May, Sarah was excitedly tipped as a potential contestant on the show during ITV's Good Morning Britain. The announcement, which included other star-studded names like Delta Goodrem and Josie Gibson, had Sarah buzzing with anticipation. Seeing her name in the mix was a thrill, and despite not making the final cut, she cherishes the experience.

As the Strictly Come Dancing 2026 line-up continues to unfold, confirmed contestants like Neighbours' alum Delta Goodrem and EastEnders icon Lacey Turner are set to take the stage. While Sarah's journey with Strictly is not over, she remains hopeful, continuing to ask herself, "Why not me?"