Annabel Croft has said farewell to Strictly!
The former tennis player was voted off Strictly Come Dancing over the weekend, losing out on a place in this Saturday’s final.
Annabel and her professional dance partner Johannes Radebe lost by three votes in the dance off, as EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier and pro Dianne Buswell sailed through to the final.
Now, as she reflects on her Strictly journey, Annabel has opened up about what it has meant to her.
In a two-part tribute, the 57-year-old gushed over everyone involved in the Strictly production.
“What an amazing semi-final and congratulations to all 3 finalists - you are all so talented and deserving of your place, in what’s going to be a wonderful final,” she praised, referring to Bobby, Bad Education star Layton Williams and Coronation Street alum Ellie Leach.
“This incredible experience has sadly come to an end and what a very fitting last dance it was. Getting to dance this beautiful Viennese Waltz, twice, back in ‘hold’ with @johannesradebe was SO special. I have learnt to love ballroom and that’s all down to Johannes for being such an amazing, patient and genius teacher,” she penned.
Annabel, who joined Strictly in honour of her late husband Mel who died in May, went on to write that the show has been “life-changing”.
“When I think back to week 1, I was apprehensive and terrified… a bit like a rabbit in the headlights. But Strictly has brought me out of my shell and allowed me to discover things about myself that I never knew,” she confessed.
“I’m not sure where I would be at mentally, had I not taken on this challenge and pushed myself out of my comfort zone and I am so appreciative that Strictly gave me this opportunity, at this time in my life,” she concluded.
Many of Annabel’s fellow Strictly stars have since congratulated her on her achievement.
“You are a true inspiration!! Thank you for being you,” replied Carlos Gu.
“You belong on that dance floor,” added Karen Hauer.
