Oti Mabuse quit Strictly Come Dancing because she ‘became bigger than celebrity stars’

OTI Mabuse has quit Strictly after seven years as she had become too big a star for the show.

The pro dancer’s rising popularity saw her eclipsing many of the celebrities on the BBC1 contest.

Oti, 31, has now signed up to three huge ITV programmes as she makes the most of her soaring profile.

A TV insider said: “While BBC bosses are obviously sad to see Oti leave Strictly, it does solve the growing problem of finding celebrities who could match her appeal.

“Although it was great to have someone like her adding so much glamour and fun, it was also creating a tricky new challenge for producers.

“Her ever-growing profile saw rivals knocking at her door and she has been tempted away from the Beeb by the prospect of becoming an even bigger star.”

Oti is already a Dancing on Ice judge and is set to host dating show, Romeo and Duet, as well as returning to The Masked Dancer panel — all on ITV.

Oti confirmed her departure from Strictly yesterday, and told how grateful she was to the Beeb for her big break in 2015.

She became the only dancer to win in successive years — with former Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 and comedian Bill Bailey in 2020.

The South African said: “I 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 in to words how difficult this decision has been, but I have decided not to return for the next series.

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“I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience.”

However Oti has not cut all ties with the Beeb. She has just recorded a show, Dancing Legends, available on BBC Sounds, and will record a documentary for BBC1 later this year, called Oti’s South African Odyssey.

Strictly head judge Shirley Ballas said she will be missed, adding: “Looking forward to following your future. May your candle continue to glow brightly for all those around you.”

Oti’s sister Motsi, who joined as a judge in 2019, added: “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.”

Strictly is set to return later this year for its 20th series.

SEVEN GLORIOUS YEARS

OTI Mabuse made her Strictly debut in 2015, and reached the final with Danny Mac the following year.

She then won the Glitterball Trophy in 2019 with Kelvin Fletcher, far right, and repeated the feat 12 months later with Bill Bailey.