Strictly's Amanda Abbington pays tribute to Matthew Perry after own tough times

29 October 2023 , 08:37

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Strictly Come Dancing star Amanda Abbington has paid a heartfelt tribute to Matthew Perry following his death as she told people 'you don't know what others are going through'

Strictly Come Dancing star Amanda Abbington has paid a heartfelt tribute to Matthew Perry following his death.

The Friends star - who was known to many for playing Chandler Bing in the hit US sitcom - passed away overnight at the age of 54. TMZ claims that the actor had returned home following a round of pickleball (a mash-up of tennis, badminton and ping-pong) and sent his assistant out on an errand shortly after, but was found unresponsive when the aide returned home.

Sharing a picture of Matthew, she wrote on Instagram: "I read his book from cover to cover. We can never, ever know what people are really, truly going through. Humans are so clever at hiding what is actually going on.

Matthew passed away last night (Getty Images North America)

Amanda pulled out of Strictly this week (PA)

"Walking through life masking so much pain with a smile and a joke. I remember watching Matthew Perry and falling in love with his beautiful ability to make people laugh so effortlessly. He was the consummate clown, gifted in his craft."

She concluded: "Even with everything going on in the world right now, this is a huge and devastating shock and a tragic loss. So sad at his untimely passing. We must all try and look after each other. Because we actually have no idea."

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Amanda has had a difficult week, having pulled out of Strictly a few days previously. She missed the weekend show for medical reasons and then issued a statement on Monday to say she could not continue on the show.

In a lengthy post, she shared: "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."

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Jasmine Allday