Oti Mabuse has confirmed that she has decided to leave Strictly Come Dancing after seven years with the show.
The announcement was somewhat inevitable after she joined ITV's Dancing On Ice as a judge, months after appearing on the broadcaster's The Masked Dancer in a similar role.
During her time on Strictly, Mabuse - younger sister of judge Motsi Mabuse - won the glitterball twice, first with Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 then again with Bill Bailey the following year.
In a post on Instagram, she wrote: "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.
"I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience!"
Sarah James, Strictly executive producer, said in a statement: "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 on the show. She will always be at the very heart of our Strictly family and we wish her every success in her already bright future."
Strictly returns to BBC One for a new series this September.
Neil Wilkes
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