Vicky Pattison has issued an emotional apology to fans after missing Monday night's episode of Strictly: It Takes Two, which she skipped to celebrate her birthday. The former Geordie Shore star, who was eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday, was expected to appear on the spin-off show but instead spent the evening with friends and family.
Taking to Instagram, Pattison shared a photo of herself blowing out birthday candles and wrote: "A gorgeous evening celebrating with my friends and family. Sorry if anyone was expecting to see me on It Takes Two tonight! My lovely Strictly family gave me the night off to enjoy my birthday." She confirmed she and professional partner Kai Widd would appear on Wednesday's show.
In a separate emotional post, Pattison expressed her gratitude for the support she received during her time on the BBC series. "I have had an incredible couple of months and I'm so grateful to everyone at @bbcstrictly for the most amazing experience!!!" she wrote. "I'm struggling to put into words how much this process has meant to me... it has been one of the best things I've ever done in my life."
Pattison also thanked Widd, calling him "the absolute BEST partner a girl could ask for.. and even more than that, a friend." She added that she would "definitely cry" during their Wednesday appearance on It Takes Two.
Fans and fellow Strictly stars rallied to support Pattison, with professional dancer Katya Jones commenting: "Ohhh Vicky!!! Your energy will be missed, you should be so proud." Carlos Gu added: "You will be missed!!! You were fabulous." Host Fleur East also announced on Monday's show that Pattison and Widd would join later in the week.
