Oti Mabuse branded a ‘little diva’ by ex co-star as she quits Strictly after seven years and two wins
OTI Mabuse’s dancer pal Neil Jones branded her a “little diva” after she announced she’s quitting Strictly.
The two-time winner, 31, said goodbye to the Strictly ballroom after seven years and many more memories.
Fellow pro Neil Jones, commented on her announcement: “Babes babes what can I say, you know I will miss you because who else am I just going to 😂 with just by looking at them because you know what I’m thinking.
“Im so proud of everything you are doing just please remember my name the next time we meet and answer your phone you little diva 😘🤟🏻.”
Not only is Oti the only pro in the show’s history to win the coveted Glitterball in consecutive series, but she’s one of its most popular personalities.
She wrote 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 are my family and I adore you all forever. Thank you @sarahjamesface@jack.will.g and @jasongilkison for truly believing in me.”
She continued: “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.”
Oti concluded her emotional post: “I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience! Lots of Love Oti xxx.”
The South African star first won with former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher in 2019 before retaining the Glitterball in 2020 with comedian Bill Bailey.
Her other Strictly partners have been Anthony Ogogo, Danny Mac, Jonnie Peacock, Graeme Swann and most recently, Ugo Monye.
Away from Strictly, she has branched out into other TV shows.
She was a judge on The Greatest Dancer for two series in 2019 and 2020 and has presented Morning Live.
This year she joined the judging panel of Dancing on Ice, which lead to speculation that it was the final step for her departure from Strictly.