STRICTLY Come Dancing star Amanda Abbington has dealt the show a crushing blow ahead of the series final.
Th Sherlock actress, who had been considered a dark horse for the glitterball before her shock exit due to ‘personal reasons’, will not appear in this weekend’s showpiece.
A spokesman for the programme told OK!: “Amanda decided to withdraw from the competition, therefore she will not be returning for the final.”
Her professional partner Giovanni Pernice is set to be part of the ensemble.
The Italian dancer paid tribute to Amanda after her exit by sharing a picture of them cuddling in Christmas jumpers on Instagram.
He wrote: “I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
However, Amanda made no mention of him in her statement leading fans to speculate there was a rift between them.
She ended her Strictly story by sharing a picture of her worn out dancing shoes and writing: “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.”
On Sunday night Annabel Croft became the latest celebrity to be eliminated, leaving Bobby Brazier, Ellie Leach and Layton Williams to make the final.
