AMANDA Abbington has snubbed partner Giovanni Pernice in an emotional statement as she announced she's quitting Strictly Come Dancing.
The Sherlock actress confirmed her departure on Instagram today and failed to mention Giovanni while thanking her fellow celebrity contestants, and the "production crew" of the BBC One show.
Amanda, 49, uploaded a photo of a pair of gold shoes and said: "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.
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"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"
News of Amanda's shock exit was first reported on Monday night when sources said Amanda was "fed up" and had handed in her notice.
Giovanni quickly shared a post paying tribute to her on social media – before she had shared her own statement.
He uploaded a photo of them hugging behind the scenes on Strictly and captioned it: "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."
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Strictly’s Giovanni breaks silence after partner Amanda Abbington quits
Her departure was also confirmed on Strictly: It Takes Two, with presenter Fleur East reading out a statement from the show.
Fleur said: "Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly and has decided to withdraw from the competition.
"The show wishes her all the best for the future."
The Sun reported last month how Amanda and her Italian dance partner Giovanni, 33, had clashed — with the actress threatening to quit over the dance pro’s “militant” attitude to training.
The pair’s escalating tension became the talk of backstage.
A source said: "Giovanni is a hard taskmaster and takes the competition very, very seriously.
"Sometimes his manner is incredibly brusque and this can upset his partners.
"Amanda was really looking forward to dancing with him, but has found his aggressive training style and attitude pretty difficult to handle."
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