OHMYGOSSIP — Oti Mabuse has quit ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 31-year-old professional dancer has confirmed speculation she won’t be returning to the BBC One Latin and ballroom competition after seven years but insisted the programme will always have a special place in her heart.
Oti – who is the only professional to have lifted the Glitterball trophy in two consecutive years after winning in 2019 with Kelvin Fletcher and again the following year with Bill Bailey – shared a statement on Instagram to announce her departure.
She wrote: “Never easy to say goodbye. 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.
“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!
“You are my family and I adore you all forever. Thank you @sarahjamesface @jack.will.g and @jasongilkison for truly believing in me
“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.
“Dance will always be my first love and to everyone, my family especially, friends, strictly fans and judges who have been my support throughout my strictly journey, thank you for being incredible!
“You are irreplaceable in my heart and have made everyday unforgettable! I love you.
“I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience! Lots of Love Oti xxx.(sic)”
‘Strictly’ bosses paid tribute to the ‘Dancing On Ice’ judge and her “memorable” years on the show.
A statement on the programme’s official social media channels read: “Oti has been a truly wonderful part of Strictly for the past seven years.
“Her energy, creativity and talent have contributed to so many of the show’s most memorable moments and she will be hugely missed, not only by viewers, but the entire team.
“She leaves a dazzling legacy behind her, as the only professional dancer to lift the Glitterball trophy in two consecutive years.
“We couldn’t be prouder of Oti and what she has achieved. She will also be at the very heart of our ‘Strictly’ family and we wish her every success in her already bright future.”

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