Amanda Abbington has said it is with the “deepest regret” that she has left Strictly Come Dancing for “personal reasons”.
It was announced on Monday (23 October) that the Sherlock star has withdrawn from the BBC competition just five weeks in.
Posting a statement on Instagram, Abbington, 51, wrote: “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.”
Abbington had been scoring well on Strictly, and had been partenered with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice.
She did not mention Pernice at all in her post, but earlier, he had shared a message of support for the actor on his Instagram, writing: “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.”
After missing last Saturday’s show (21 October) for “medical reasons”, Abbington had shared a quote from actor Robin Williams about mental health, writing: “People don’t fake depression… they fake being OK. Remember that. Be kind.”
More to follow
