Strictly Come Dancing star Motsi Mabuse has backed sister Oti's decision to quit the show, telling her "it's time to fly," in a touching response on Instagram.
Speculation has mounted over the last few months that two time Strictly champion Oti could walk away from the BBC programme after jumping ship to ITV to judge The Masked Dancer and then Dancing On Ice, which she is starring in at the moment.
And on Tuesday morning, Oti who triumphed on Strictly with both Kelvin Fletcher and Bill Bailey, took to social media to confirm her departure.
One part of the lengthy post saw Oti write: "I’m honestly so grateful to The BBC and will always remember that Strictly and BBC brought me to the UK - which I now call home and I have learnt and grown so much. - Thank You from the bottom of my heart."
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Among the first people to react to Oti's post was older sibling Motsi, who told her: "It’s time to fly baby girl. ! I am so proud of you. fearless, courageous and so looking forward to seeing your dreams come true."
Taking things further, Motsi then addressed Oti quitting Strictly with a post on her own Instagram.
Next to a video of Oti in action in a professionals routine in the BBC ballroom, Motsi 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!!!!! @bbcstrictly I am sure many will miss you."
Just like Oti's initial post, Motsi's tribute to her sister got plenty of reactions with the likes of Strictly host Claudia Winkleman and pro dancer Nancy Xiu posting love heart emojis underneath. "
Strictly 2021 contestant Sara Davies also posted about Oti leaving the show on social media, writing: "For someone who’s been such a huge fan of Strictly since it started, I loved watching Oti burst onto the show.
"Her energy, drive and passion are contagious and I’ve felt honoured to be able to work alongside her and to get to know her as a friend! I know she’s going to be so missed on Strictly but she’s going to do even more great things in life. Good luck Oti and tonnes of love!"
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