BGT star Kerri-Anne Donaldson has died as Strictly pros pay tribute
Strictly Come Dancing professionals Neil and Katya Jones were among those paying tribute to Kerri-Anne, who starred on the talent show in 2014.
Adding his own heartfelt words to the growing number was Strictly pro Kevin Clifton, 40, who wrote: "Absolutely heartbroken. I’ve known Kerri since we were kids and she was always the loveliest girl. A friend and a dance partner. I’m glad we got to dance together this xmas. And that the whole cast of Strictly Ballroom got to work with you in rehearsals. RIP"
Fellow dancer Amy Dowden, 32, also paid tribute to the young star, writing: "So shocked and sad. Such a beautiful dancer and kind soul! Sending love to all of your family and friends. Heaven has certainly gained an angel. Keep dancing up there lovely."
Neil Jones, 41, wrote: "Kerri Anne Donaldson- remember that name and please never forget it because it belongs to a woman who loved to dance, create and perform, she had the cheekiest laugh and a heart of gold, she hated getting in the car with me, but would always listen to my crazy ideas, we shared so many moments and stories and she was always the voice of reason. Kerri you were my friend and like my big sister."
It Takes Two host, Janette Manrara, 39, commented underneath Neil's post, writing: "How sad to see this news. She was a such a lovely person. My hearts goes out to all her friends and family during this time."
Kerri-Anne performed on Britain's Got Talent back in 2014 as part of dance group Kings and Queens and it was the The Supadance National League that confirmed her death earlier today.
Posting on Instagram next to a black and white photo of Kerri, they wrote: "The directors of the League are devastated to hear the extremely sad news of the passing of the daughter of their fellow directors Jacqui and Colin Donaldson principals at Diamond Dance centre and on behalf of all the schools in the League send love and prayers to them, their family and dance school!"
The dance group Kings and Queens, which also included Strictly pros Neil and Katya Jones, managed to reach the semi-final of the show at the time with Simon Cowell remarking during their audition: "We've had some great dance groups on this show over the years, I think it was incredible," fellow judge Alesha Dixon added, "If you don't make it to the Final, I'll eat my arm".
Following the devastating news of Kerri's death, Strictly dancer Joanne Clifton, 39, also penned an emotional tribute to her on Instagram.
She wrote: "I have no words… This is just heartbreaking.. truly devastating. We’ve known you and shared the dance floor with you basically all our lives... Dance up there with the angels Kerri.. you beautiful dancer, you beautiful soul."
Kerri-Anne's death was first confirmed by her older sister, Cara Donaldson, on Facebook, who wrote: "My heart hurts and my world has just collapsed around me.
"My beautiful baby sister is no longer with us and I don't know how to process it. I love you Kerri, you're my best friend, we were inseparable and right now I don't know how to fill the void. Be peaceful and hold Nan tight."
The cause of Kerri's death is currently unknown.
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