Annabel Croft has broken her silence after she missed out on reaching the Strictly Come Dancing final on Sunday.
The British former tennis player, 57, was pipped to the final by EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier, who wowed judges with his quickstep to Mack The Knife.
On Monday, Croft, who lost her husband Mel Coleman in May just 16 weeks after he was diagnosed with colon cancer, reflected on her time on the show in a lengthy Instagram post and paid tribute to her Strictly partner Johannes Radebe for giving her “a reason to get out of bed”.
She penned: “There are so many things I have to say, so here is a part one reflection on Saturday… What an amazing semi-final and congratulations to all three finalists – you are so talented and deserving of your place, in what’s going to be a wonderful final...
“Dancing a salsa on Saturday night and being flung around like a rag doll was not something I will ever forget. I spent half the dance in hysterics, after skidding on the floor and landing on my back, with out of control legs in the air ha ha ha...”
Adding: “Thank goodness for the super strong Johannes, who was able to pick me up and land me on my feet, just in time, to hit the beat and carry on partying. What a blast!...
“The last video was taken in rehearsals when I practiced the entrance from the sky, however seconds before we danced live, the mechanics broke down, so confetti was thrown from a stationary position, instead of the air...
“It was all so much fun and I honestly can’t stop laughing when I think about this dance. It’s been one of my favourites this series and a big shout out to the choreographers, I have loved working with you.”
Following the dance-off on Sunday night, Croft, who was visibly emotional that her Strictly journey had come to an end, thanked Radebe for helping to “heal” her in the wake of her husband’s death.
She said: “It’s been the most life-changing and extraordinary experience of my life.
“Johannes, you have been absolutely extraordinary. You have given me a reason to get out of bed and come and dance with you, distract me and to heal me.
“You have been so patient, so caring and so loving. You are an unbelievably special human being. I simply adore you.
“I really want to thank Strictly for letting me take part in this competition. Thank you so much Johannes for the most special time I have had with you.”
