Strictly Come Dancing is back for 2022 but many of those tuning into the launch show might be wondering why professional dancer Oti Mabuse is not in this year's line-up. Oti announced she had quit the show in February after seven years.
The 32-year-old, who is currently a judge on ITV's The Masked Dancer, was a firm favourite among fans and won the Strictly Glitterball trophy in both 2019 with Kelvin Fletcher and 2020 with Bill Bailey. The announcement came after Oti sat on the Dancing On Ice judging panel earlier this year, replacing John Barrowman.
At the time, the BBC said: "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 dance to life the Glitterball Trophy in two consecutive years.
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"We couldn't be prouder of Oti and what she has achieved. She will always be at the very heart of our Strictly family and we wish her every success in her already bright future."
Meanwhile, Oti shared on Instagram: "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 can read more of what Oti said in her statement here.
Oti's sister Motsi, who is a judge on Strictly, recently spoke about her sister's exit. Speaking to Prima magazine, Motsi said: "I'll be sad not to see her on Strictly this year. I'll always worry about my sister, but I have to respect her decision and let her go. She's proven that she can more than protect herself and push herself to new heights."
Since quitting Oti has appeared as a judge on The Masked Dancer, and has also presented the dating show Romeo and Duet on ITV, which has since been axed.
Strictly Come Dancing continues tomorrow at 6.45pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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