The heartbreaking reason Motsi Mabuse will be absent from Strictly Come Dancing

Motsi Mabuse will be absent from Strictly Come Dancing tonight and next Saturday after an urgent trip back to Germany has forced her to self-isolate.

The Strictly Come Dancing judge is self-isolating at home after returning to the UK from Germany, in line with travel restrictions.

Motsi, 39, revealed she had to go back to Germany after her dance school was targeted by thieves. 

Alongside an upsetting photograph of a smashed door, she explained, "Unfortunately we have no good news. Someone tried to break into our school @motsimabuse_taunustanzschule.

"We are working with the police to solve this crime. We know we have been targeted on purpose and we will improve security in our school that this will not happen again."

While Motsi will be noticeably absent from tonight's show, she does hope to make an appearance from her living room.

Updating fans earlier on this week, she said, "Hi Guys - Earlier this week I needed to travel to Germany for an urgent reason.

"I will of course be following the UK Government guidelines and self-isolating for 14 days. I'll be watching from home and by the power of technology, should be in your living rooms.

"Watch out though, I'll be doing my own hair and make-up!"

With Motsi unable to return to work for 14 days, Anton Du Beke will be joining the judging panel this weekend.

A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the good news: "We are pleased to announce that the King of Ballroom Anton Du Beke is stepping into our judging panel this weekend.

"Good luck, Anton!"

Anton is the longest-standing professional dancer on the show, having been with the team since the first series in 2004.