Strictly fans all saying the same thing as Oti Mabuse quits the show after seven years

STRICTLY COME Dancing fans have taken to social media in their droves to share their devastation over Oti Mabuse’s exit from the show.

The South African dancer confirmed earlier today that she is leaving the BBC ballroom stalwart after seven years.

Oti Mabuse has left Strictly fans ‘gutted’ after announcing she was quitting the showCredit: PA

Oti has won the show twice, first with Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 and then again in 2020 with Bill BaileyCredit: PA

The 31-year-old has been part of the BBC dancing show since 2015 and is the only professional to win the competition in two consecutive years.

However, the star confirmed today via her Instagram that she would not be returning.

In light of her announcement, Strictly fans flooded social media to share their disappointment that the dancer won’t be returning as a pro.

One penned: “My heart is broken! Oti’s effervescent personality, her ability to teach and her brilliant choreography will be sorely missed by many, I am sure.”

“Obviously gutted as Oti is a phenomenal dancer and one of the best choreographers on the show, but she’s given us so many magical moments and obviously on to new exciting experiences,” another shared.

“#Strictly showed the UK what a Superstar she was, guess it is time for her to take flight”.

A third commented: “I’m not okay about this. Not okay at all #Strictly”.

“Will miss Oti a lot, she was always a highlight and an absolute queen 👑” another remarked.

A fifth shared: “so sad to hear this 🙁 oti you have been an absolute dream to watch, i can’t believe it’s been seven whole series wow i feel old!! can’t wait to see what you do next 💕” (sic).

BYE BYE BALLROOM

Earlier today Oti announced she was leaving Strictly Come Dancing in a heartfelt Instagram post.

Oti 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.”

She continued: “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 in to 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.”

Oti concluded her emotional post by saying: “I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience! Lots of Love Oti xxx @bbcstrictly@bbc.”

STRICTLY RUN

Oti first won with former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 before retaining the Glitterball trophy in 2020 with comedian Bill Bailey.

Her other Strictly partners have been Anthony Ogogo, Danny Mac, Jonnie Peacock, Graeme Swann and most recently, Ugo Monye.

Oti has become one of the most popular pros on the show, however, she has been branching out away from Strictly in recent years.

She was a judge on The Greatest Dancer for two series in 2019 and 2020 and has presented Morning Live.

Oti appeared on Strictly for seven yearsCredit: BBC

Oti was partnered with Ugo Monye for the 2021 series, which has become her lastCredit: PA

Oti joined Dancing on Ice as a judge for the current seriesCredit: Rex