Strictly Star Amanda Abbington Quits Competition, Sparks Speculation of Feud with Dance Partner Giovanni Pernice

Strictly Come Dancing star Amanda Abbington has quit the competition, citing 'personal reasons'. The actress, 51, and her dance partner Giovanni Pernice did not perform during last Saturday's episode, which fueled rumors about their strained relationship. While Amanda did not disclose the specific reasons for her departure, insiders claim that her time on the show has been 'plagued with difficulties.'

During Monday's episode of the radio show Boogaloo, Amanda's co-host Sue Vincent expressed her pride in the actress, stating, 'I am phenomenally proud of you! I cannot find the words to say how proud I am.' Amanda responded, 'I'm good, I'm really good.' However, in her exit statement, Amanda thanked her team but failed to mention Giovanni, adding to speculations of a feud between the dance partners.

Giovanni took to Instagram, sharing a backstage photo with Amanda from Movie Week and expressing his sadness over their inability to continue together. The show's statement on Monday's It Takes Two confirmed Amanda's exit, while wishing her well for the future.

While Amanda's reasons for leaving Strictly Come Dancing remain undisclosed, sources suggest that her withdrawal was a result of a difficult partnership with Giovanni. Some viewers also speculate if this could be Giovanni's last season with a celebrity partner after seven years on the show.

It is currently unknown whether Amanda knew the challenges she would face by signing up for the BBC dance competition. Insiders claim that her relationship with Giovanni was not gelling from the beginning, with differing training styles and toughness mentioned as potential issues. Whether these issues were the primary cause of her departure or if there are other factors involved remains unclear.

As Strictly Come Dancing fans process Amanda Abbington's sudden exit and speculate about the dynamics of her partnership with Giovanni Pernice, the future of both celebrities on the show remains uncertain.