November 11th 2023.
Amanda Abbington recently announced her departure from Strictly Come Dancing, citing 'medical reasons' for her exit. The Sherlock actress, 51, expressed 'deep regret' over the difficult decision, thanking her fellow contestants and the production team who looked after her on the show. However, she failed to mention her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, 33, which reignited rumours of a 'feud' between the pair, which she has previously rubbished.
On her Boogaloo Radio show, Amanda hinted that she felt ‘pushed over the edge’, warning people to ‘be kind’, as she said: ‘You don’t know what someone else is going through, you have no idea what’s going on in their life so before you say anything hateful and cruel just check yourself. It takes so much more energy to be hateful, to be horrible, where you could just not say anything or say something positive.’
It has now been reported that Amanda will not be returning to Strictly this series at all, including for a final dance with Giovanni as all the couples reunite at the end of the series. An insider said: ‘There have understandably been lots of questions asked about Amanda’s sudden departure. That has been difficult – especially for Giovanni, who has been upset about people seeing it as a reflection on him.’ Despite ‘clashing at times’ the source said Giovanni wishes Amanda ‘all the best’.
On social media, Giovanni shared a picture of himself and Amanda backstage on the hit BBC show, writing: ‘Amanda .. I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.’
In her statement about leaving the show, Amanda wrote: ‘It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside. I want to thank the incredible Production team and everyone on Strictly who looked after me and who are so kind and caring. It’s a wonderful bunch of people and I’ll miss all of them. I’m so sad that I am unable to go any further. Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you. xxx’
It's certainly been a difficult time for all involved, and Strictly Come Dancing continues tomorrow night at 7.20pm on BBC One.
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