Abbington’s departure from the show was announced on Monday 23rd October.

By James Hibbs

Published: Wednesday, 25 October 2023 at 13:53 PM


Following reports that Giovanni Pernice was apparently ‘annoyed’ with Amanda Abbington for exiting Strictly Come Dancing 2023, RadioTimes.com understands that there is no truth to these claims.

On Tuesday 24th October, tabloid reports claimed that the Sherlock star hadn’t told her professional dance partner that she had decided to quit the show, leaving him feeling ‘frustrated’ and ‘complaining about it to friends’.

However, RadioTimes.com understands that this is not the case and the rumours are not accurate.

When approached by RadioTimes.com, the BBC declined to comment.

Giovanni Pernice wears a white suit and Amanda Abbington wears a white floor-length gown as they dance on Strictly Come Dancing
Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington.
BBC Pictures/Guy Levy

Fleur East announced the news of Abbington’s departure on Monday’s (23rd October) edition of It Takes Two, after she was absent from last week’s show due to medical reasons.

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Abbington subsequently issued a statement on Instagram, saying: “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.”

Meanwhile, Pernice said in a post on Instagram: “I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”