Strictly judge Anton Du Beke has broken his silence on Amanda Abbington quitting the show.
The star spoke out about the star quitting during an appearance on This Morning this week (Wednesday, October 25).
Amanda quits
On Monday, it was confirmed by the BBC that Amanda Abbington had quit Strictly. She had previously been absent from last Saturday’s show due to a health issue.
In a statement, Strictly 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.”
Amanda addressed her exit in an Instagram post on Tuesday. “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 said.
After thanking her fellow stars and production team, she said: “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.”
However, she failed to mention Giovanni at all in her statement.
Anton Du Beke addresses Amanda Abbington Strictly exit
Wednesday’s edition of This Morning saw Anton make an appearance. The star was on the show to discuss his new novel, A Paris Affair.
However, the conversation soon turned to talking about Amanda’s exit from the show.
“Amanda! I couldn’t believe she’s leaving as well,” Alison said towards the end of their chat with the judge. “I was so upset.”
“Yeah, that’s terribly sad because she was terrific! Could have made it all the way to the final,” Anton replied. “I thought she was very, very good.”
“Such a shame,” Alison said. “Maybe she can do another year.”
“Maybe she can come back,” Anton then said.
Giovanni Pernice hits back at shock Amanda Abbington Strictly exit claims
Meanwhile, in other Amanda-related news, Giovanni has been forced to rubbish claims that he only found out Amanda was quitting Strictly after a producer told him.
Speaking to the Daily Star, a source alleged: “Amanda didn’t tell Giovanni she had decided to quit the show. The first he heard was a call from a producer.
“This has really annoyed him. He’s barely heard from her for 10 days. She hasn’t been replying to messages or telling him what’s happening. He’s been complaining about it to friends. He’s frustrated,” they then claimed.
“He is worried the drama will be damaging for his career and make him look bad,” they then alleged.
However, Giovanni’s reps have since hit back at the claims, branding them “nonsense”.
Read more: All the ‘feud’ rumours Giovanni Pernice has faced during his Strictly career
Strictly continues on Saturday, October 28 at 6.40pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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