John Sergeant quits Strictly Come Dancing

John Sergeant has sensationally pulled out of Strictly Come Dancing.

In a statement released today, he said: "I am sorry to say I have decided to leave Strictly Come Dancing.

"It was always my intention to have fun on the show and I was hoping to stay in as long as possible. The trouble is that there is now a real danger that I might win the competition. Even for me that would be a joke too far."

John has received strong support from the public despite being criticised by the judges each week over his performances.

The phone vote has seen him sail through to the next rounds, while the better dancers have faced the dance-off and axe from the show.

Strictly judge Arlene Phillips said of his departure: "I'm always sad if a contestant leaves of choice, because you are always expecting to let the public vote them in or out - but John is his own person and he has his own reasons for doing this.

However, she denied that the judges were responsible and said: "If you look back, we've actually been quite nice on this programme."

Cherie Lunghi, who was voted off the show on Sunday night, admitted that the show was becoming more like a soap opera.

She said: "It is almost like there are two shows going on. John is dancing and competing, but there is this whole soap thing and sympathy for the character."

Following John's statement today, BBC One controller Jay Hunt said: "We are very sad to see him go."

Do you think John is right to quit Strictly? Let us know what you think...

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