Strictly Come Dancing pro Giovanni Pernice issued a three word message to his co-star following a final snub by his former celebrity partner.
The professional dancer was paired with actress Amanda Abbington for the current series of the BBC dance competition. However, their time on the show was cut short when Amanda suddenly quit the show. The pair had been tipped to make the final of Strictly, but Amanda missed a live performance due to medical reasons.
Days later she posted a statement saying she was leaving the competition for "personal reasons". It sparked rumours of tension between Amanda and Giovanni as the Sherlock star failed to mention her dance partner in her emotional statement. The dancer has since returned to the show as he continues to perform alongside other professionals.
He appeared in Sunday night's group number which marked Remembrance Day. Giovanni was partnered with Nadiya Bychkova for the emotional performance that opened up the pre-recorded show. Ahead of the programme, Nadiya took to her Instagram to share a string of snaps with Giovanni.
Alongside the post she wrote: "It’s becoming a tradition to dance the Remembrance Group Routine @bbcstrictly with @giovannipernice. Always special." In response, Giovanni commented: "Always super special!!"
What Ola and James Jordan really ate and did to shed 7stIt comes after reports Amanda is set to snub the Strictly final. Bosses had hoped she would return for the final as all the contestants reunite for one last dance. But, a source has revealed Amanda would not be making a comeback. The pair were rumoured to have had blazing rows during rehearsals, which is said to have caused Amanda to quit the show.
A source told The Mirror: “There have understandably been lots of questions asked about Amanda’s sudden departure. That has been difficult – especially for Giovanni, who has been upset about people seeing it as a reflection on him. Though they clashed at times, he genuinely wishes her all the best.”
Producers were said to be keen for Amanda, 51, to reunite with Giovanni to show there was “no bad blood”. The source added: “They wanted to position her as still very much part of the Strictly family, but Amanda’s response to the invitation was she’d not be back. It’s a shame, because her exit has been a sour note to the series this year.”
Amanda and Giovanni were said to be at loggerheads behind the scenes, though both put on brave faces for the camera. Sharing an image of a pair of shoes, Amanda revealed that she withdrew from the competition due to "personal reasons". She 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." Amanda concluded her announcement with: "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"
Giovanni soon shared a sweet message about his celeb partner. Posting a snap of himself and Amanda taken backstage during Movie Week, he wrote: "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."