Amanda Abbington has shared a statement after her shock Strictly exit.
The programme confirmed Amanda's departure yesterday (23 October) in an Instagram statement which read: "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."
Her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice, has also shared a statement after she left the show and now Amanda herself has finally broken her silence on her departure.
The Sherlock star took to Instagram earlier this morning (24 October) to share a message to her fans.
She captioned a photo of a pair of gold high heels which read: "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.
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"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."
The the 51-year-old actor continued: "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."
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She concluded: "You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you. xxx."
Thousands of fans have since rushed into the comments section to share supportive messages for the star, with one Instagram user writing: "I am so sorry to read this, you are a beautiful dancer and you were a wonderful pair to watch."
A second offered: "So much love to you. Whatever you are going through I hope you and your loved ones have the love, strength and resilience to get through it. Massive internet hugs to you."
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"I thoroughly enjoyed watching you and Giovanni and was rooting for you all the way, and I could see how much you were loving the experience so it’s terribly sad that you’ve left the show," penned a third before adding: "Wishing you all the very best."
Amanda's departure comes after she missed her last performance last Saturday (21 October) reportedly due to 'medical reasons'.
Her absence was addressed on the show with presenter Claudia Winkleman telling viewers: "Now as you may have noticed, Amanda and Giovanni are missing from the lineup. Due to medical reasons Amanda is unable to perform this week."
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And fellow presenter, Tess Daly, also acknowledged the actor's absence over the weekend, saying: "As per the rules of the competition she has been given a bye and all being well will return to the ballroom next weekend."
The actor's absence from last weekend’s live show was announced just one day before she was set to appear on the dance floor alongside Giovanni.
Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday (28 October) at 6.35pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone
Topics: BBC, Celebrity, Strictly Come Dancing, TV And Film, Mental Health, Health
Rhiannon Ingle