Richie Anderson breaks silence on 'short but sweet' Strictly journey after vote off

Richie Anderson has broken his social media silence after becoming the second celebrity contestant to be voted off Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC Radio Two presenter and his professional dancing partner Giovanni Pernice left the show during Movie Week.

Richie and Giovanni were voted off by the judges after the dreaded dance-off, which saw them go up against Fleur East and Vito Coppola. The pair danced the Samba to Hakuna Matata from The Lion King, while Fleur and Vito performed their American Smooth to Part Of Your World from The Little Mermiad.

Fleur and Vito were saved by Craig Revel Horwood, Anton Du Beke and Motsi Mabuse, while head judge Shirley Ballas said she would have saved Richie and Giovanni. Many viewers at home were left "furious" Richie and Fleur were in the bottom two, with Motsi also surprised by the vote, calling it "heart-breaking". You can read more on this here.

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During the show, Richie said Strictly had been a "magical thing to be a part of" and following the results has now taken to social media to share his thoughts. In a heartfelt statement, Richie said: "Choose Dance - always!

"It's been short, but sweet! Never did I think I’d be given the chance to attempt to cha cha cha, quickstep and samba live on television. I also got to meet some amazing people who will be friends forever! Can't wait to cheer everyone on for the rest of the series.

Host Tess Daly with Richie Anderson and Giovanni Pernice (BBC)

"@giovannipernice it’s been an honour to dance in the ballroom with you. Thanks to everyone who voted, supported and sent kind comments."

Giovanni responded with his own comment, telling Richie: "Well done mate !! Always choose dance and you def did. Be proud of yourself." While Welsh professional dancer, Amy Dowden added: "Love you @iamrichieanderson."

And presenter Claudia Winkleman wrote: "You were magnificent." For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.

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