ACTRESS BOWS OUT OF ‘STRICTLY COME DANCING’
She was a strong contender to lift the Glitterball trophy in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, but last week actress Amanda Abbington pulled out of Britain’s most popular TV show, to the shock and disappointment of her fans.
The news broke last Monday, when it was announced that the Sherlock star, who had not performed on Saturday’s show for “medical reasons”, would not be returning.
Taking to Instagram, the actress, 49, posted a picture of her Latin dance shoes displayed on a window sill, accompanied by the caption: “It is with the 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.”
She went on to pay tribute to her “beautiful, hardworking and talented” fellow contestants, and thanked the production staff and backstage team.
“I’m so sad that I am unable to go any further,” she added. “Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you.”
Amanda’s professional partner, Giovanni Pernice, 33, was conspicuous by his absence from her tribute, fuelling rumours that a strained relationship with the Italian dancer was to blame for her early departure.
However, he took to Instagram following her announcement, posting a backstage picture of the pair with the caption: “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,” followed by a heart emoji.
It was reported last month that the pair had been arguing about Giovanni’s rigorous training regime, although they presented a united front. But a source recently commented: “From the very beginning, they weren’t gelling. Obviously they were putting a brave fa
