EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal faced an early scare ahead of the new series of Strictly Come Dancing. The 46-year-old actress, known for her role as Suki Panesar, experienced a painful injury during rehearsals just days before the show’s launch.

Balvinder shared the news on Instagram, revealing that “something popped” in her left glute and hip during the second day of training. While she assured fans that she could still walk and move, she promptly visited a physio to check the injury.

Tough Training on the Strictly Floor

Speaking candidly, Balvinder admitted that the experience had been the hardest she’s ever worked. She praised the professional dancers, calling them “superhuman” and marveling at their skill in teaching complex routines.

Despite the injury, Balvinder remained committed to rehearsals. She joked about hoping the physio would “go easy” on her, but her determination to continue was clear.

Back on Track

Thankfully, Balvinder has since returned to full rehearsals. Sharing a photo of herself in practice, she reassured fans: “Day three training done! Hip/glute all good—just tight. Thank you for all your messages of love and support. We kept dancing.”

Her resilience highlights her commitment to both EastEnders and Strictly, juggling a demanding filming schedule with intense dance training.

Star-Studded Lineup

Balvinder is among the celebrity contestants for this year’s series, which airs Saturday, September 20 on BBC One at 6:40 pm. Fellow contestants include Dani Dyer, Chris Robshaw, Thomas Skinner, Ross King, and Vicky Pattison.

Other contestants have also faced minor injuries during rehearsals. Vicky Pattison shared photos of a toe blister, candidly describing the highs and lows of training.

Excitement Builds Ahead of Launch

Balvinder expressed her excitement about taking part in Strictly, describing it as “the stuff that dreams are made of.” She revealed that the experience has been both challenging and rewarding, and that she feels “incredibly excited” at the prospect of dancing across the ballroom.

Fans can expect high energy and impressive routines from Balvinder, as she combines her acting experience with the rigorous demands of dance training. Her early injury appears to be nothing more than a temporary setback.

Countdown to the First Episode

With rehearsals complete and the first episode already filmed, anticipation is mounting. Balvinder and her fellow celebrities are ready to light up the ballroom when Strictly Come Dancing returns this weekend.

Viewers will be watching closely to see how Balvinder handles the live shows after such a dramatic start to her training.