Amanda Abbington NOT invited to perform at Strictly finale by bosses
STRICTLY Come Dancing bosses did not invite actress Amanda Abbington to perform in the show’s series finale, I can reveal.
It came after the Sherlock star was widely claimed to have snubbed the last episode of the BBC One competition earlier this month.
She was notably missing from the line-up as all the other contestants returned for a send-off group routine.
Amanda, who was partnered with pro Giovanni Pernice, was one of the favourites to win the Glitterball before leaving the competition in October due to medical reasons.
She was also rumoured to be feuding with Gio.
Meanwhile, actor Nigel Harman — who pulled out of the contest two weeks before the final due to injury — was asked back to perform.
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A show source said: “There was a lot of talk on set about Amanda’s notable absence from the finale.
“It seemed unfair that Nigel was invited back and she wasn’t.
“I imagine she was upset by the snub as it would have been nice to have seen her return for one last dance, especially as she was so popular on the show and well-liked by viewers.”
Yesterday Amanda posted a comment on social media suggesting she had been devastated to leave the series.
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She shared a post from a Strictly viewer and fan on her Instagram stories which read: “I was truly distraught with her sudden departure from the show.”
Amanda added her own caption, replying: “Thank you angel.
“So was I.”
A BBC spokeswoman responded to my story with a quote first issued two months ago when Amanda left the show.
It said: “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.”
Meanwhile, Amanda, whose partner is escapologist Jonathan Goodwin, has welcomed a new sausage dog puppy into her family, sharing snaps on social media over Christmas.
I couldn’t think of a better way to cheer myself up . . .