Strictly's Amanda Abbington's statement in full as she quits with 'deep regret'

24 October 2023 , 10:17

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Strictly's Amanda Abbington's statement in full as she quits with 'deep regret'

Strictly Come Dancing's Amanda Abington has spoken out since it was announced she had quit the programme.

The actress had been at the centre of rumours of a rift between herself and professional dancer Giovanni Pernice for several weeks although neither have discussed this. Last week it was announced the pair would be missing the live programme after Amanda fell ill.

However, on Monday, it was revealed that she had become "fed up" and made the tough decision to walk away from the programme but said she was "sad" and had "deep regret". Taking to Instagram, the actress shared her thoughts on the matter.

Amanda Abbington has broken her silence (BBC/Ray Burmiston)

She failed to mention Giovanni (PA)

In view of her 134,000 followers, the Mr Selfridge star said: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons, I am unable to continue. 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." Although Amanda is yet to address her former professional partner, Giovanni broke his silence and admitted he was "sad".

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Amanda shared a snap of her dancing shoes (Amanda Abbington Instagram)

Sharing a snap of himself alongside the star on Instagram, he said: "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 @amanda_abbington74 @bbcstrictly."

Just hours before BBC's It Takes Two announced her departure, the Daily Star revealed: "The schedule is very gruelling and after a series of setbacks on the show she has simply decided, with regret, that it's the right thing to do." But this wasn't echoed on the official Strictly Instagram page which said: "Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition. The show wishes her all the best."

Meanwhile, during It Takes Two, host and former contestant Fleur East said: "Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition. The show wishes her all the best for the future."

Daniel Bird