Giovanni Pernice has made an unexpected early exit from this series of Strictly Come Dancing, as his partner Amanda Abbington stepped back. Although the pro dancer has been supportive of the actress, he has also faced some more disappointing news this week.
It's been confirmed that the star has had to cancel his Cardiff dates for his upcoming tour, Let Me Entertain You. The 33-year-old had been due to perform at the St David's Hall on 24 January, 2024, but the venue has confirmed that it will be closed on that date due to maintenance, and is directing fans on how to get a refund.
A message on its website reads: "St David's Hall will be closed until the new year to undertake additional checks on the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels in the building."
The news comes as Giovanni and Amanda pulled out of Strictly, with a spokesperson for the show confirming the news on Monday. A statement said: "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."
Giovanni was quick to offer his support to the Sherlock star, as he said: "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."
Amanda didn't appear during last week's show, due to "medical reasons". Addressing this on Strictly's sister show, It Takes Two, host Janette Manrara 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."
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.
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."
Addressing her own exit, Amanda shared: "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. Xxx."
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