Amanda Abbington was ‘distraught’ about leaving Strictly (Picture: BBC/Ray Burmiston)
After quitting Strictly Come Dancing, Amanda Abbington has decided to remain largely quiet about her exit until now.
Partnered with Italian pro Giovanni Pernice, 33, Amanda, 51, performed four routines before she left the competition.
Now she’s opened up about how difficult the decision to leave the series was for her.
On Instagram stories, Fred Morgan, a Strictly Come Dancing superfan who shares fun facts on his account Strictly FM shared that he was ‘truly distraught’ about Amanda’s departure at the time.
The Sherlock actor saw the message and reposted it, adding: ‘Thank you angel. So was I.’
Amanda initially received a pass for one week due to ‘health reasons.’ However, in week six, it was announced that she had withdrawn from the competition completely.
Amanda and Giovanni were partnered together (Picture: PA)
Amanda reposted a fan messgae (Picture: Instagram/Amanda Abbington)
At the time of her departure, she released a lengthy statement that began: ‘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.’
She added it was ‘an absolute joy’ to work with her fellow contestants, and thanked the Strictly crew.
‘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,’ Amanda concluded.
At the time, rumours swirled about a so-called feud with Gio, but the full reason for her premature departure remains unknown.
Amanda wished all the finalists luck (Picture: PA)
Amanda was the only celebrity from the cast of 2023 who did not return for the group dance in the final episode of Strictly.
However, she did take the time to wish the finalists – Layton Williams, and Bobby Brazier, who were competing for Glitterball glory with their respective partners Nikita Kuzmin, and Dianne Buswell and eventual winners Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola ‘good luck.’
Last month, Amanda shared that fiancé Jonathan Goodwin had an incredible development after nearly being killed in a fireball stunt two years ago.
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Amanda spoke about her exit on Instagram.