Amanda Abbington from BBC Strictly speaks out following final exclusion amidst Giovanni ‘feud’
Actress Amanda Abbington, aged 51, withdrew from her scheduled return to Strictly Come Dancing tonight, along with her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice.
Amanda Abbington has finally spoken out about tonight’s Strictly Come Dancing final. The 51-year-old actress had withdrawn from the BBC show, leaving her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice in the lurch. Reports suggested Pernice was deeply upset as Abbington departed unexpectedly back in October without any prior indication.
Taking to Instagram today, Amanda posted a photo featuring this year’s finalists: Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola from Coronation Street, Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell, and Layton Williams Nikita Kuzmin. Her message read: “Wishing these six beautiful individuals the best of luck tonight.”
A BBC spokesperson confirmed to the Mirror last week that Amanda wouldn’t be making a comeback, stating, “Amanda chose to withdraw from the competition, hence she won’t be partaking in the final.”
Nigel Harman had also left the show prematurely due to an injury, but he’s set to return tonight alongside his partner Katya Jones. The Mirror was informed by a spokesperson: “Nigel Harman will be back for the Strictly Come Dancing final on Saturday 16th December, joining other members of the 2023 cast. Though he had to exit the competition early due to an injury, he won’t be performing in the final.”
Following her departure two months ago, Amanda cited “personal reasons” for her withdrawal from Strictly Come Dancing. In her statement, she expressed gratitude to the production team and everyone involved with the show, omitting mention of her professional dance partner, Giovanni. Responding to her announcement on social media, Giovanni took to Instagram to express his sadness at their premature departure from the competition.
On his Instagram, Giovanni shared a photo of himself and Amanda in festive attire, embracing, and conveyed his sorrow over their inability to continue. He remarked, “I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
The BBC issued a statement, relayed by It Takes Two host Fleur East, confirming Amanda Abbington’s departure from Strictly Come Dancing due to her inability to continue in the competition. The show extended their best wishes to her for the future. Fleur also showcased highlights of Amanda and Giovanni’s performances before offering her own heartfelt wishes to the actress.
Prior to Amanda’s official announcement, her partner Jonathan Goodwin posted a cryptic message on social media. Just hours before her exit was confirmed, he shared a photo of himself with a reflective caption addressing self-judgment. He later posted a reel demonstrating a 45-minute technique aimed at enhancing productivity and eliminating unwanted feelings, behaviours, or emotions.
The Strictly Come Dancing Final is set to be aired tonight at 7 pm on BBC One.
