Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Vicky Pattison found herself at the centre of fan support after issuing an emotional apology for missing the show's regular spin-off programme.
Birthday Absence Explained
Vicky Pattison was notably absent from the Monday evening broadcast of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two on 18 November 2025. Typically, the celebrity eliminated from the main BBC show on Sunday makes an appearance the following night. However, Pattison was celebrating her birthday instead.
Taking to her Instagram story, the media personality shared a photograph of herself blowing out candles on a birthday cake. She accompanied the image with a message for her followers, writing: "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 continued, before confirming, "Me and Kai Widd will be on on Wednesday, and I can't wait."
An Emotional Thank You to Supporters
Beyond the birthday apology, Vicky posted a longer, more emotional message on social media, expressing her gratitude for the public's backing throughout her Strictly journey.
"Where do I even begin??" she penned. "I have had an incredible couple of months and I'm so grateful to everyone at @bbcstrictly for the most amazing experience! ! ! I am going to miss my beautiful strictly family so much.. and I can't wait to watch them all smash it this weekend in Blackpool! ! ! I love you all!"
She described the experience as "one of the best things I've ever done in my life" and paid a special tribute to her professional partner, Kai Widdrington.
"To my @kaiwidd, I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart- the absolute BEST partner a girl could ask for.. and even more than that, a friend," she shared.
She concluded her heartfelt note by reiterating her Wednesday appearance and thanking fans: "Final Thank you to you guys, for your support and kindness.. I am so grateful to you all! You made a little girl's dreams come true, and I loved my time spent on that dance floor!"
Flood of Support from Strictly Family
Fans and fellow dancers quickly flooded the comments with messages of support and admiration.
Professional dancer Katya Jones wrote: "Ohhh Vicky! ! ! Your energy will be missed, you should be so proud x."
Fellow pro Lauren Oakley commented: "Gonna miss you. You've been amazing." Meanwhile, Carlos Gu posted: "You will be missed!!! You were fabulous."
During Monday's edition of It Takes Two, presenter Fleur East officially confirmed to viewers that Vicky and Kai would not be appearing that night but would join the programme later in the week.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One.
