John Whaite has spoken out on coming runner-up to Rose Ayling-Ellis on Strictly Come Dancing.
The final of the BBC One dance competition aired on Saturday night with the former Bake Off winner going head-to-head with the EastEnders actress.
It was only a two-person final after AJ Odudu suffered a heartbreaking injury which ruled her and partner Kai Widdrington out of their final performance.
The remaining pairs - Rose and Giovanni Pernice and John and Johannes Radebe - each performed three dances in the hope to get their hands on the Glitterball trophy.
READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing fans point out why Rose and Giovanni winning was 'the only result'
Each performed their favourite dance, the judge's pick, and a showdance before the stars of 2021 returned for a trip down Strictly memory lane.
But in the closing moments of what had been a very emotional yet uplifting show, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman revealed the winners.
And it was Rose and Giovanni who triumphed.
The pair jumped for joy as their names were called while Rose made history as the programme's first deaf winner.
John was quick to speak out as the confetti rained down on Strictly Come Dancing for another year.
Sharing a selfie with Rose on Instagram, he said: "I’m so proud to have been even up there with this girl.
"I’m sure you’ll agree she’s a remarkable human being, a barrier breaker, and a very worthy winner."
He added: "Congratulations @rose.a.e and @pernicegiovann1."
John also spoke of his own journey with Johannes, the show's first all-male pairing.
Alongside a picture of the both being covered in confetti as they walked towards a lit-up heart at the end of their showdance, the Wigan-born star said: "When the glitter has faded and the spotlights have dimmed, I hope you all cherish something mighty special from this that will live on in your hearts.
"I’m so proud to have been part of such a diverse, groundbreaking series of @bbcstrictly. What started life as an entertainment show has this year provided solace for so many outcasts.
"Whoever you may be, I pray you always have the heart to be kind, to be understanding and to love. It really is as simple as that."
He added: "@johannesradebe thank you for holding my hand and for sharing this little moment in our lives. I’ll never forget it.
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