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Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington © BBC

Giovanni Pernice breaks silence after dance partner Amanda Abbington quits Strictly

Sherlock actress Amanda missed Saturday's live show due to 'medical reasons'

Phoebe Tatham
Content Writer
October 23, 2023
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Strictly star Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence after his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington stepped down from the BBC dance competition.

Taking to Instagram on Monday evening, the Sicilian dancer, 33, shared a message with his followers which read: "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 [heart emoji] @amanda_abbington74 @bbcstrictly."

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Giovanni's fans and friends were quick to send supportive messages in the comments section, with one writing: "Such a shame, you were a great pairing. Hope Amanda is OK," while another wrote: "Gutted to be losing you, Gio. Was looking forward to having you back for Halloween! Sending love!"

A third remarked: "So sad about this. You were my faves," and a fourth added: "Wishing Amanda all the best, she was extremely elegant on Strictly ever since the first dance."

Giovanni Pernice & Amanda Abbington on Strictly Come Dancing © Ray Burniston
Giovanni Pernice & Amanda Abbington on Strictly Come Dancing

Whilst Amanda has yet to open up about her early exit, it's thought that the star's ongoing 'medical issues' may have played a part.

News of her abrupt exit was confirmed on Monday night's edition of It Takes Two, with host Fleur East sharing an official statement from a Strictly spokesperson.

It 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."

Amanda Abbington at Mission Impossible premiere© Getty Images
Amanda Abbington didn't take part on Saturday's live show

Sending her support, Fleur went on to say: "Amanda, we are sending you all of our love."

The star's exit came just days after the actress was absent from the latest instalment of Strictly due to 'medical reasons.'

Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice scored high for their Rumba© Guy Levy
Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice scored high for their Rumba

Her absence from Saturday's show was announced by It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara who shared: "We have some breaking news, unfortunately due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend.

"Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, Amanda and Giovanni will return the following week. Amanda, we hope you get well soon my love, sending you all the best wishes."

WATCH: Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington open up about their close bond

Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly also addressed Amanda's absence from the dancefloor as they opened the live show on Saturday evening.

"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," Claudia told the audience.

Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice's dance for movie week© BBC
Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice wowed with their routine for movie week

Tess went on to say: "As per the rules of the competition, she's been given a bye and all being well will return to the ballroom next weekend. Amanda, we are all sending you so much love."

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