Strictly Come Dancing judge Motsi Mabuse has moved fans with an emotional social media tribute to her sister Oti, following the professional dancer's announcement that she's leaving the hit BBC show after seven spectacular seasons.
In a video that's quickly captured the hearts of Strictly enthusiasts nationwide, Motsi opened up about the significance of her younger sister's departure from the programme that made both sisters household names in British television.
A Sister's Heartfelt Reaction
The emotional footage shows Motsi, who joined the Strictly judging panel in 2019, visibly moved as she discusses Oti's decision to pursue new opportunities. "It's the end of an era," Motsi expressed in the video, her voice filled with genuine emotion. "Watching my sister grow and achieve so much on that dance floor has been one of the greatest joys of my life."
Oti Mabuse leaves behind an impressive Strictly legacy, having lifted the Glitterball Trophy twice during her tenure - first with comedian Bill Bailey in 2020, then with Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher in 2019. Her dynamic choreography and infectious energy made her one of the most beloved professional dancers in the show's history.
From South Africa to Strictly Stardom
The Mabuse sisters' journey to British television fame is nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from South Africa, both women have carved out spectacular careers in dance and entertainment, with Motsi previously serving as a judge on Germany's Let's Dance before joining the UK version.
"We came from Pretoria with big dreams," Motsi reflected in her video message. "To see what Oti has accomplished, the lives she's touched through her dancing - it's beyond anything we could have imagined growing up."
What's Next for the Dancing Dynasty?
While Oti's departure marks the end of a chapter, both sisters continue to build their entertainment careers. Oti has recently appeared as a judge on ITV's Dancing on Ice and presented BBC One's The One Show, while Motsi remains a fixture on the Strictly judging panel alongside Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke.
Strictly fans have flooded social media with messages of support for both sisters, with many describing the emotional video as "beautiful" and "heartfelt." The clip has rapidly gained traction online, highlighting the deep connection viewers feel with the talented dancing duo who've become an integral part of British Saturday night television.
As one fan perfectly summarised: "The Mabuse sisters have brought so much joy, talent and genuine emotion to our screens. They represent everything that makes Strictly magical."
