Strictly Come Dancing star Dianne Buswell has said “it is really sad” to see two of her BBC One co-stars announce they will be leaving the programme.
Last month, Aljaž Škorjanec issued a statement confirming he wouldn’t be returning to the programme, having starred as a professional dancer for the past nine years
The Slovenian star said stepping out onto the Strictly dancefloor left him more nervous than any other aspect of his career.
Meanwhile, Oti Mabuse who won the famous trophy for two consecutive years also announced her departure after seven “incredible years” on the Saturday night family programme.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Reflecting on their decision while appearing on ITV’s Lorraine with Christine Lampard, Dianne: “I actually started with Aljaž, many many years ago, before Strictly.
“I have known Aljaž and Janette for ages, so to see Aljaž go, it’s really sad, it’s like your brother is leaving
“The thing with everyone, same with Oti, is that we are still so close – we’re still going to see everyone.
“We’ll still see them, they’re still a part of the show, it’s just they won’t be there.”
(Image: ITV)
Oti is believed to have wanted to pursue further television projects away from the BBC, having won ITV viewers over on The Masked Dancer and more recently, Dancing On Ice.
Discussing her exit, she took to Instagram to share a string of snaps from her time on the programme, as well as a group picture from her final series.
She penned: “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: Sue Andrews / SplashNews.com)
“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!
“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. Thank You from the bottom of my heart.
“I can’t put into words how difficult this decision has been, but I have decided not to return for the next series.”
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
While Aljaž said: “A little while ago I made the tough decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last.
“The show has given me an opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend for the last 9 years.
“Being a part of a group of professionals that inspire and push you to be better every step of the way is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever.
“Every year the lineup of dancers would change but one thing stayed the same, WE WERE THE BEST! And this is one thing that I know will never change on Strictly!
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
