Amanda Abbington is not returning for the Strictly Come Dancing finale after apparent rows and clashes with her professional dance partner Giovani Pernice.

These arguments were said to have caused Amanda to drop out of the show with showrunners previously hoping to have her return for the finale.

The production team was said to be interested in showing that there was "no bad blood" between the English actress and those on the show, despite rumoured disagreements backstage.

Amanda Abbington will 'not be back' for Strictly finale amid rows

However, a source close to the production said: “There have understandably been lots of questions asked about Amanda’s sudden departure.

"That has been difficult – especially for Giovanni, who has been upset about people seeing it as a reflection on him.

“Though they clashed at times, he genuinely wishes her all the best.”

Speaking with the Mirror, the source added: “They wanted to position her as still very much part of the Strictly family, but Amanda’s response to the invitation was she’d not be back.

“It’s a shame because her exit has been a sour note to the series this year.” 

Amanda Abbington dropped out of Strictly Come Dancing in week five of the BBC programme, citing medical reasons.

She was set to return the very next week but later announced she would not be returning to the show to compete anymore.

In a post on Instagram, she said: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue.

"It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside."

She went on to thank the production team as well as everyone else behind Strictly, describing them as a "wonderful bunch of people".

The Strictly Come Dancing results show airs on Sunday, November 12 from 7:20pm on BBC One.