Oti Mabuse has quit Strictly Come Dancing after seven years as a pro dancer, as she said goodbye to her BBC colleagues.
The star shared her big news on Instagram, thanking the people who work on the show and the celebrities she has performed with.
Oti, who has seen her television judging career flourish since joining Dancing On Ice, said she is “so grateful” for her time on the BBC show.
She shared a gallery of images of her years on Strictly and a lengthy caption, which started: “Never easy to say goodbye.
“I have been part of the most amazing TV show, Strictly Come Dancing for the past seven years and it has been an incredible time.
(Image: @otimabuse/Instagram)
“Lifting the glitter ball twice and having the best journey with all my celebrities, but also meeting and working with the best team, crew, producers, celebs and incredible professional dancers!
“You are my family and I adore you all forever. Thank you @sarahjamesface @jack.will.g and @jasongilkison for truly believing in me.”
The 31-year-old continued: “I’m honestly so grateful to the BBC and will always remember that Strictly and BBC brought me to the UK – which I now call home and I have learnt and grown so much.
(Image: PA)
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Oti added: “I can’t put in to words how difficult this decision has been, but I have decided not to return for the next series.”
The television star went on: “Dance will always be my first love and to everyone, my family especially, friends, Strictly fans and judges who have been my support throughout my Strictly journey, thank you for being incredible!
“You are irreplaceable in my heart and have made everyday unforgettable! I love you.”
She finished her post with a nod to the show’s iconic catchphrase, writing: “I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience!
“Lots of Love Oti xxx.”
Her co-star Giovanni Pernice quickly commented underneath, writing: “Good luck for the future queen.”
Fellow pro Graziano Di Prima said: “My friend! I’m gonna miss you so so much! You are a star my darling! I had the pleasure to share the stage with you!”
(Image: Matt Frost/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
And her sister and Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse commented: “It’s time to fly baby girl! I am so proud of you. Fearless, courageous and so looking forward to seeing your dreams come true.”
Last year, Oti was paired with former rugby player and pundit Ugo Monye, before they became the fourth couple to be eliminated.
But she won the series for two years in a row before that, first with Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 and then with comedian Bill Bailey in 2020.
Her other television work has seen her move over to ITV, being a panelist on The Masked Dancer in 2021, and a judge on Dancing On Ice this year.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
