Giovanni Pernice shares supportive message to Striclty partner Amanda Abbington

Following the sad news that actress Amanda Abbington has chosen to quit this year's Strictly Come Dancing, her professional partner Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence on the news.

Taking to his social media accounts to send his love and support to Amanda, Giovanni wrote: '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 ♥️ @amanda_abbington74 @bbcstrictly'. (sic)

Fans of the show were quick to comment on Giovanni's post, with many sending their love to 49-year-old Amanda.

One wrote: 'Wishing Amanda all the best, she was extremely elegant on Strictly ever since the first dance. ❤️ Saddened to hear that she's unable to continue, but all humans have their reasons and wish to withdraw away from something to focus on another thing to help themselves. Take care of yourself, Amanda. Love you both lots. 💜'. (sic)

Another added: 'I'm devastated that Amanda has pulled out of Strictly. Gio and Amanda were my winners! Get well, love, and prayers whizzing your way, Amanda xx'. (sic)

A third then commented: 'I hope she is okay - your dances together were sublime - but health comes first. Sending love and good wishes to you both, winners either way! X'. (sic)

After Amanda and Giovanni missed last weekend's show, news that she'd made the decision to withdraw from the competition was announced on Monday (23rd October) night, with BBC bosses releasing a statement.

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.'

On Tuesday (24th October) morning, Amanda took to her own Instagram page to write: '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'. (sic)

Check out all of this year's Strictly pairings below:

Despite Amanda's departure, the show must go on, with the remaining celebs currently preparing for Halloween Week this weekend!

Strictly Come Dancing airs every Saturday and Sunday on BBC One.

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