Oti Mabuse will be able to speak to her sister Motsi again now she’s quit Strictly Come Dancing as they previously banned themselves from socialising due to fears of favouritism accusations.
The 31-year-old professional dancer has been one of the stars of Strictly since 2015 but sensationally quit the show this week revealing she won’t be back for the 2022 season.
Oti’s older sister Motsi, 40, became a judge on the hit BBC show in 2019 – placing the sisters in an awkward position as one would be professionally critiquing the other.
And in order to avoid any accusations of favouritism or a ‘fix’, the sisters agreed to borderline ignore each other while appearing on the show together – despite Strictly airing for months at a time.
Oti previously explained to The Sun: “We were very professional and, to be fair to everyone else, it needed to be.
”I only really saw her on the show day on Saturdays when she was critiquing. Kelvin and I didn't really speak to her, either, because we were so busy."
Indeed, Oti said she only found out that Motsi had been appointed a judge in 2019 at the same time as everyone else.
She said: “I only found out on the day Motsi was announced, as production don't tell me anything. They do what they do and they did what was best for the show. Other than that I have no control. I know how amazing Motsi is and to see her in that capacity, I was proud of her.”
Now the ladies won’t face this issue as Oti has sensationally quit the BBC show that made her a household name across the UK.
Announcing her shock news on Tuesday, Oti wrote online: “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.
“I will always Keeeep Dancing! and I will never forget my amazing Strictly experience!”
Motsi has proved she is a supportive sister as she was the first to wish Oti well on her future endeavours.
In an Instagram post of her own, the older sister wrote: “I am so proud of this girl. I was there from your very step and I always wanted to look out for you all the way but watching you grow is a privilege , I sit back and tears of pride roll down!
“Love you sis go get them and Good Luck @otimabuse she is a Lion , fearless, courageous and bold.”
Fans perhaps anticipated Oti would abandon Strictly after her six year run as she surprisingly jumped ship to ITV to take up a judging role on rival show Dancing On Ice.
While back in April 2021, Oti already hinted that series 19 of the BBC show – which she competed in alongside sportsman Ugo Monye – would be her last.
She told the Telegraph: “I love to dance and also I love bringing joy to so many people. But I think that will be the last one.”
