Amanda Abbington’s withdrawal from Strictly Come Dancing due to personal reasons has left fans and the show’s hosts sending their love and support to the actor.

Amanda Abbington, known for her role in Sherlock, withdrew from Strictly Come Dancing for “personal reasons” just five weeks into the competition. Host Claudia Winkleman addressed Abbington’s absence at the start of the show and expressed the show’s support, saying, “Amanda Abbington withdrew from the competition. Amanda, we are sending you all our love.”

Abbington shared a statement on Instagram, expressing her regret at having to leave the show and emphasizing that it was not an easy decision. While she didn’t post anything about Strictly during the latest episode, she did reshare an Instagram Story from her friend, actor Simon Pegg, with a heartfelt caption.

Halloween Week on Strictly Come Dancing featured impressive costumes, with contestants dressing up as swans, wizards, and killers. However, it was the judges who stole the show with their costumes. Motsi Mabuse dressed as a spider, Anton Du Beke as Dr. Frankenstein, Shirley Ballas as the villainous Snow White queen, and Craig Revel Horwood as a sweaty Severus Snape.

Angela Rippon, the oldest contestant in Strictly history at 79, delivered a memorable performance during Halloween Week. Her Charleston to the theme tune of Murder, She Wrote was her fastest dance yet, and her partner Kai Widdrington threw her into the air repeatedly, creating quite a spectacle. Craig Revel Horwood praised the performance as a “swivel masterclass,” bringing pure joy to the audience.

The Halloween Week episode of Strictly Come Dancing showcased both emotional moments, with Amanda Abbington’s withdrawal, and entertaining performances, with impressive costumes and Angela Rippon’s energetic dance. The show continues next Saturday on BBC One.