Oti Mabuse has been left heartbroken after her niece died at the age of just 28.
The former BBC Strictly Come Dancing professional took to Instagram this morning to pay a touching tribute to her 'kind, sweet' niece Tlhogi. She shared a string of photos of the pair together to her 644k followers and said she 'couldn't the describe the pain' she felt.
Oti, who is now a judge on ITV Dancing on Ice, added that 'this was not how her niece was supposed to go'.
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On Instagram, she wrote: "How is this the last time I would hold you in my arms. I am so shattered inside I can’t even begin to describe the pain. This is not how this was supposed to go. We had plans together, travel the world and dance on a beach in Jamaica for my birthday I used to fetch you everyday from crèche, swimming, chess since we were 8."
She went on: "You were only 28 yet the kindest, sweetest human being in my life! I’ve lost my niece, my little sister, my best friend Life dealt you the harshest card but you always chose to win, you always fought to come out the other side above it all with a smile on your face.
"I love you much with all my heart and now you’re gone and I feel lost in more ways than one to a pain I’ve never felt before I’m still calling you and texting you trying to understand - how? Why?
"May you rest in peace and power. my sweet Tlhogi say hi to Koko, Abuti Neo Le Malume Tshepo. I promise to take care of Sesi, Nanikie and Mpho for you x"
A string of stars, including her former Strictly colleagues, rallied around the professional dancer and left comments of support on the post. Strictly pro Karen Hauer wrote: "Love you. Sending all the love to you and your family."
Head judge Shirley Ballas commented a heart and crying emoji. Pro dancer Nancy Xu also commented hearts and sad emojis.
Former Strictly contestant Gemma Atkinson wrote: "Sending love to you all Oti." Drag Race star Michelle Visage, also a former contestant on the BBC show, said: "I'm so sorry my love."
In February, Oti announced her departure as a pro on Strictly after seven years. She said it was 'never to easy to say goodbye' as she thanked the BBC and fans for their support.
"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", she added.
