AN AXED Strictly star has broken their silence after being booted off the show.
Former professional footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, 53, performed an American Smooth with pro dancer Lauren Oakley for Icons Week this weekend.
Axed Strictly star Jimmy has broken his silence after being booted off the showCredit: PA
They battled it out against Amber and NikitaCredit: PA
Despite earning a respectable 30 points, Jimmy found himself in the bottom two with West End and former Love Island star Amber Davies.
They battled it out, out but sadly for Jimmy it was his turn to leave the show.
Now, he’s spoken out with a statement on Instagram, saying: “My time on the show has come to an end, and while I left earlier than I’d hoped, I walk away proud of what I achieved.
“In just a few weeks, I made my point – a footballer can dance, and it’s more than okay to put yourself out there.
“Most importantly, I made my daughters proud. I showed them that stepping outside your comfort zone is worth it, and that hard work truly pays off. Lauren – thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Jimmy continued: “Your talent, patience, and belief in me made this journey unforgettable. Dancing with you has been a privilege, and I’ll always be grateful for the way you lifted me up and helped me grow.
“To the hidden heroes behind the scenes – hair, makeup, wardrobe/ costume, the runners, the backstage and camera crew – you are the heartbeat of this show.
“To everyone who’s supported and voted for us. THANK YOU. To all the contestants I’ve met, it’s been a pleasure getting to know you. I’ll be
His Instagram post comes after his dance off rival, Amber Davies, posted a video telling fans she felt like “trash.”
She could be seen in a clip after having just got out of bed, and mimed to a voiceover that said: “I woke up this morning and I felt like absolute garbage, for anyone who wants to know what garbage is, that is French for trash.”
This week Anton Du Beke had the casting decision.
But all four judges decided to save Amber, so it was time for Jimmy to say goodbye to the competition.
Jimmy was left emotional as he told co-host Tess Daly that the show had been an experience of a lifetime.
Jimmy said: “I’ve absolutely loved it. I can only say thank you very much for having this experience.
“My daughters pushing me to come here and do this.
“I never expected that I’d enjoy it this much. This experience is going to live with me forever.
“More importantly this girl [Lauren], she’s a diamond, thank you very much. You’ve been absolutely amazing with me.”
All four judges decided to save Amber, so it was time for Jimmy to say goodbye to the competitionCredit: PA
