Giovanni Pernice breaks silence after dance partner Amanda Abbington quits Strictly

Strictly star Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence after his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington stepped down from the BBC dance competition.

Taking to Instagram on Monday evening, the Sicilian dancer, 33, shared a message with his followers which read: "Amanda… I am so sad we can't continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love [heart emoji] @amanda_abbington74 @bbcstrictly."

Giovanni's fans and friends were quick to send supportive messages in the comments section, with one writing: "Such a shame, you were a great pairing. Hope Amanda is OK," while another wrote: "Gutted to be losing you, Gio. Was looking forward to having you back for Halloween! Sending love!"

A third remarked: "So sad about this. You were my faves," and a fourth added: "Wishing Amanda all the best, she was extremely elegant on Strictly ever since the first dance."

© Ray Burniston

Whilst Amanda has yet to open up about her early exit, it's thought that the star's ongoing 'medical issues' may have played a part.

News of her abrupt exit was confirmed on Monday night's edition of It Takes Two, with host Fleur East sharing an official statement from a Strictly spokesperson.

It read: "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."

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Sending her support, Fleur went on to say: "Amanda, we are sending you all of our love."

The star's exit came just days after the actress was absent from the latest instalment of Strictly due to 'medical reasons.'

© Guy Levy

Her absence from Saturday's show was announced by It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara who shared: "We have some breaking news, unfortunately due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend.

"Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, Amanda and Giovanni will return the following week. Amanda, we hope you get well soon my love, sending you all the best wishes."

Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly also addressed Amanda's absence from the dancefloor as they opened the live show on Saturday evening.

"Now as you may have noticed Amanda and Giovanni are missing from the line-up. Due to medical reasons, Amanda is unable to perform this week," Claudia told the audience.

© BBC

Tess went on to say: "As per the rules of the competition, she's been given a bye and all being well will return to the ballroom next weekend. Amanda, we are all sending you so much love."