Dan Walker sends supportive message to Motsi Mabuse after heartbreaking announcement

Dan Walker has reached out to Strictly Come Dancing judge Motsi Mabuse as she makes a sad announcement about this weekends show

Dan Walker
(Image credit: BBC)

Dan Walker has sent a sweet message to Motsi Mabuse as she announces that she will no longer be able to participate in this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing. 

Last week, BBC's dancing show was missing a key Strictly judge as Craig Revel Horwood announced that he would not be able to participate in the show because he contracted COVID-19.   

Just a week after Craig's absence, Motsi Mabuse has taken to social media to reveal to fans that she too will not be able to participate in the show, but not because she herself has contracted the virus.

Motsi revealed that she was pinged by NHS Track and Trace and despite testing negative, her German vaccine means that she will have to isolate and miss the show.

Ever the gentleman, Strictly contestant and BBC presenter, Dan reached out to the star to share his support. Dan reponded to Motsi's tweet by saying, "Sorry to hear this Motsi. Take care of yourself and hopefully see you soon."


Motsi revealed that she was truly devastated to miss this week of judging, particularly as she is neither unwell nor infectious. 

"I am gutted to say I will have to miss this weekend on Strictly...yesterday, I was contacted by NHS Track and Trace as being in close contact with someone on Sunday 21st Nov who has since tested positive."

"Being double vaccinated & booster as I am, would normally mean exemption from isolation under the 'close contact' rules, but unfortunately German EU vaccines are not recognized and neither is my booster in this instance—so I must follow UK Government Guidance and can only return after 30 November 2021 to UK, " said Motsi.

The judge concluded by saying, "Our health is the most important thing and luckily I have been tested many times this week and am negative. I am healthy, I am with my family and that's what matters! I wish everyone good luck, sending you my love, keep dancing, Until then, lots of love and stay safe xx"

A statement from Strictly Come Dancing producers announced that Motsi would be replaced on the panel by a familiar face. "We can confirm Motsi Mabuse will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend."

"We are delighted that Cynthia Erivo will be joining us as a guest judge again, joining Craig Revel Horwood, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas on the judging panel."

"We look forward to having Motsi back with us next weekend," said the BBC show.

Motsi Mabuse wows the crowds

(Image credit: Getty)

When Craig Revel Horwood was unable to make it to the competition, fans thought that this major change to Strictly would mean that Dan was safe again.

The fan's theories were proved to be true as Dan was saved for another week and received a mix of hate and admiration from fans. It will remain to be seen if Dan Walker's position in the show will be jeopardized by this change in judges this weekend.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday, November 27 at 6.55 pm and the results will air on Sunday at 7.20 pm.  

Laura Harman

Laura is the Entertainment Editor for woman&home who primarily covers television, film, and celebrity news. Laura loves drinking and eating and can often be found trying to get reservations at London's trendiest restaurants. When she's not wining and dining, Laura can also be found travelling, baking, and hiking with her dog.