Amanda Abbington has quit Strictly Come Dancing.
The news was announced via the BBC contest’s official Instagram page on Monday evening.
Alongside a photo of Amanda and her pro partner Giovanni Pernice, it wrote: “Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition.”
BBC
“The show wishes her all the best for the future,” the statement concluded.
A host of Strictly stars paid tribute to Amanda following the announcement of her departure – including her pro partner Giovanni, who wrote: “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 ♥️.”
Zara McDermott commented: “Amanda you are a true gem in this world. We love you beyond words. 🥺❤️ xxxxxxxxxx.”
Meanwhile, Angela Scanlon penned: “so gutted. We love you @amanda_abbington74 xx.”
It comes after the Sherlock actress reportedly shared a post about mental health after it was revealed she and her professional partner Giovanni would be skipping last week’s live show on medical grounds.
The UK Sun later reported that producers were concerned she would leave the competition as she “wouldn’t be ready” to compete this week.
Former Strictly pro AJ Pritchard told the publication: “Amanda will have been putting her body through a regime she isn’t used to and putting muscles under strain.”
“It’s important that she gets the rest that she needs now.”
It comes after Strictly sent “all their love” to Amanda at the beginning of Saturday night’s show.
In a speech introducing the couples, host Claudia Winkleman said: “Now as you may have noticed, Amanda and Giovanni are missing from the line up, due to medical reasons Amanda is unable to perform this week.”
Her co-host Tess Daly added: “As per the rules of the competition she has been given a bye and all being well will return to the ballroom next weekend.”
Claudia gushed: “Amanda, we are all sending you so much love,” before Tess said: “So much love to you.”
