Strictly's Anton Du Beke reeling as he breaks silence on Amanda Abbington exit

25 October 2023 , 11:58

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Strictly's Anton Du Beke reeling as he breaks silence on Amanda Abbington exit

Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has shared his "sadness" over Amanda Abbington quitting the series, but he teased she could be back.

Just days after contestant Amanda confirmed she would not be returning alongside pro dancer Giovanni Pernice, Anton suggested a future return could be on the cards. Amanda has since broken her silence on her departure, confirming it was not a decision she made "easily or lightly" but "for personal reasons" she was unable to continue with the show.

Now, show judge Anton has had his say and said Amanda could have made the final had she stayed on the show. Praising her, he said it was "terribly sad" for her to bow out so soon.

But speaking on This Morning, he also addressed a future return on the BBC series. He said: "Yeah, that’s terribly sad because she was terrific and she could have made it all the way to the final. I thought she was very strong, amazing. Maybe she can come back."

Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has shared his "sadness" over Amanda Abbington quitting (ITV)

During spin-off show It Takes Two on Monday, host Fleur East confirmed that Amanda had quit the BBC competition. Amanda and her professional partner Giovanni has been given a bye to the Halloween week after missing out last weekend due to medical reasons, but it has since been confirmed they will not be back this series as a partnership.

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In a statement read out on It Takes Two, Fleur 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 confirmed she would not be returning (BBC)

It comes as Amanda released a statement over her exit on Tuesday. She posted on Instagram: "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."

Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturday and Sundays on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.* Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on , , , , and .

Charlotte Tutton