Why is Amanda Abbington not performing on BBC Strictly Come Dancing tonight and will she be back?

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Twelve couples were set to take to the ballroom this Saturday night (October 21) as this year's Strictly Come Dancing nears the halfway mark.

Week five of the BBC One dance contest will determine who makes it through to next weekend's Halloween special. However, the planned 12 couples set to perform has been cut to 11 at the eleventh hour.

Actress Amanda Abbington has been forced to pull out of Strictly's live show on Saturday night "due to medical reasons". Former Strictly professional Janette Manrara announced the news on BBC Two spin-off show It Takes Two on Friday night (October 20), telling the audience "we have some breaking news". READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing couple 'most likely to win' named as they're set to go 'head to head' with 'intense' pair READ MORE: Read more of today's top stories from the Manchester Evening News "Unfortunately, due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend," she said. "Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, Amanda and Giovanni (Pernice) will return the following week." The 39-year-old added: “Amanda we hope you get well soon, my love, sending you all the best wishes.” A Strictly Come Dancing spokeswoman then also later confirmed the announcement.

Amanda, who is paired with Italian professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, scored 31 for last week’s quick-footed foxtrot to Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac for their routine.