Strictly Come Dancing fans were dealt a heartbreaking blow just hours before the fifth live show of the series, when it was revealed that Amanda Abbington would no longer be taking part this weekend.
The news broke late on Friday evening, when It Takes Two host Janette Manrara said: "We have some breaking news, unfortunately due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend. "Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, Amanda and Giovanni will return the following week.
Amanda we hope you get well soon my love, sending you all the best wishes!" The decision to temporarily withdraw will no doubt have come as a crushing blow to the couple, who week after week have continued to impress both the expert judging panel and audiences at home with their phenomenal dance skills.
In the very first week of the competition, the couple danced their way to the upper end of the leaderboard, with a score of 29 points, before continuing to excel week after week, with scores of 32, 30 and 31.
Read more on ok.co.uk