BBC bosses' five-word Giovanni Pernice endorsement to Italian Strictly producers

Giovanni Pernice has been described as 'not a danger to contestants' as he begins work on the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing. BBC bosses reportedly made the claim before he was hired by the show.

The Sicilian dancer quit British Strictly in May this year after a complaint to the BBC about his rehearsal room behaviour by celeb partner Amanda Abbington. He denies any wrongdoing.

While the investigation into Abbington’s claims remains ongoing, the BBC’s alleged clearance of the star is indication that they’re set to clear him. And he has now moved to Ballando con le Stelle as their newest professional dancer.

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Speaking to Daily Mail, one insider said: "Of course he wanted to take part on Ballando. He loves dancing but there was a question mark hanging over his head regarding his conduct.

“The BBC decided that was absolutely unfair and made the decision to intervene and give him a clean bill of health. There is no way they would have done that if they had any worries about his behaviour. It tells you all you need to know, really.”

Giovanni has been partnered with singer, actress and TV presenter Bianca Guacerro on the Italian show.