Professional dancer Neil Jones has thanked Kevin Clifton helping him get his job on Strictly Come Dancing after the shock news that Kev has quit the show.
Kevin, 37, announced on Friday that he is closing the door on Strictly seven years after first appearing on the hugely popular BBC One entertainment series.
Fans have been left saddened by his departure, and they aren’t the only ones. His co-stars are gutted too!
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Read more: Kevin Clifton quits Strictly Come Dancing after seven years
Taking to Instagram, Neil has paid homage to his pal, revealing that he has a huge amount to thank him for.
Neil wrote: “Kev kev super king @keviclifton ….
“Now we’ve known each other since we were kids and I remember the day you called me up to ask if I was interested to come and help out during Strictly rehearsals which was basically my way on to the show.
“You are a great, talented and passionate guy who manages to watch football, WWE and listen to a podcast all at the same time while drinking a tea and holding a conversation (now if that’s not a talent).”
Neil went on to thank Kevin for standing in for him last year, after a knee injury forced him to bow out of the show for several weeks.
He continued: “You have always been there for me when I needed you including last year when I got injured and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
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“The Strictly audience will miss you but we all know you will do great stuff. 💪🏻 #teamred.”
Kevin announced he was leaving Strictly on Friday, alongside a lengthy statement on social media.
The star highlighted his favourite moments on the show and thanked all the cast, crew and celebrities he has worked with over the years for “inspiring” him.
The strictly audience will miss you but we all know you will do great stuff.
Kevin hasn’t given a reason for his departure, but wrote: “To me Strictly always has been and always will be the best show on tv and has been an absolute dream and honour to be a part of.”
Meanwhile, Neil isn’t the only star to publicly bid Kevin farewell.
Kevin’s girlfriend and fellow winner, Stacey Dooley, paid tribute, while Strictly professional Janette Manrara wrote on her Instagram: “Best of luck to this INCREDIBLE legend, @keviclifton!
“You always brought your heart and soul to every aspect of @bbcstrictly & I truly admired watching you in action all these years.
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Read more: Kevin Clifton ‘encouraged to leave Strictly Come Dancing by Stacey Dooley’
“Good luck in your future endeavours ‘Kevis’!! I’ll miss you, and I love you! #KevinFromGrimsby.”
And Kevin’s most recent celebrity dance partner, Anneka Rice, wrote on Instagram: “Do you want a lift to your next adventure @keviclifton ??
“Excited to hear your news today because you’ll have something MASSIVE up your sleeve! #strictly #newhorizons #adventure #helicopter #dancing #strictlybusiness #kevin.”
According to reports today, Kevin has landed his very own show in London’s West End. This is said to have played a big part in his decision to bow out of Strictly.
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