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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Kirsty McCormack

Craig Revel Horwood says Oti Mabuse quitting Strictly is 'best move she will ever make'

Craig Revel Horwood has spoken out about the news that Oti Mabuse has quit Strictly Come Dancing.

Oti, 31, announced the news on Tuesday morning via Instagram by sharing a bunch of images of her time on the BBC show.

Part of the caption on the post read: "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."

Craig Revel Horwood has spoken out about the news that Oti Mabuse has quit Strictly Come Dancing (ITV)

Oti went on to say: "I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience!" and Craig reckons she has made the right decision by leaving.

Appearing on Tuesday's This Morning, Craig was asked about the news by hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.

Craig commented: "Thats fantastic, I think it's brilliant news. She's becoming a huge star in her own right and I think that is the way to treat the business, there's only so long you can spend in one show.

Oti Mabuse has quit Strictly Come Dancing since becoming a judge on Dancing on Ice (Matt Frost/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

"I think it's the best move that she will ever make, I mean she is fantastic as a presenter and I just love her," he added.

Mum-of-three Holly then chimed in: "Well it's our gain over on Dancing on Ice, we absolutely love her so... wonderful!"

Craig then added: "I will miss having the odd dance with her because, of course, she's the tallest pro that we have so I always have to dance with her."

Holly offered: "I'll come and dance with you," but her comment fell flat as Craig failed to acknowledge what she had said.

Other Strictly stars were quick to comment on Oti's Instagram post as well and sent her well wishes.

Graziano Di Prima wrote: "My friend!! I’m gonna miss you so so much!! you are a star my darling!! I had the pleasure to share the stage with you!!"

Oti won the 2020 series of Strictly Come Dancing with comedian Bill Bailey (PA)

Giovanni Pernice added: "Good luck for the future queen."

Under the announcement, several of Oti's Strictly costars sent her well wishes.

Graziano Di Prima wrote: "My friend!! I’m gonna miss you so so much!! you are a star my darling!! I had the pleasure to share the stage with you!!"

Giovanni Pernice added: "Good luck for the future queen."

Oti's sister, Motsi, who is a judge on Strictly, penned: "It’s time to fly baby girl ! I am so proud of you fearless, courageous and so looking forward to seeing your dreams come true."

Luba Mushtuk joined in: "All the luck in the world to you for next chapter ! Will miss you a lot."

This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITV Hub.

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