BBC Strictly fans convinced Giovanni Pernice is 'reason' pro was 'snubbed' from 2024 series
Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts are speculating that Giovanni Pernice is the 'reason' behind a favourite professional dancer being dropped from the 2024 main line-up.
The dazzling BBC One show made its comeback on Saturday (September 14), launching its 20th series. Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman returned to introduce another group of 15 celebrities to the dance floor for its pre-recorded launch show.
Celebrities such as JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri and Nick Knowles have all signed up to strut their stuff in an attempt to secure a place in the final and win the coveted Glitterball trophy.
Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke are back as usual, ready to share their initial impressions of the pairings. The series also marks the return of fan-favourite pro Amy Dowden, following her battle with breast cancer.
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However, one noticeable pro without a celebrity partner this year is Lauren Oakley. The Birmingham-based dancer joined the show last year, and was partnered with Krishnan Guru-Murthy, reports the Express.
But for the 2024 series, she is not part of the main professional dancer line-up. And viewers believe this is due to Giovanni Pernice.
Strictly fans will remember Giovanni Pernice left the show earlier this year, following bullying allegations from his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington. Giovanni strongly refutes the claims made by Amanda.
Following Lauren Oakley's surprise absence from Strictly Come Dancing 2024, fans have taken to social media to speculate that her close friendship with Giovanni Pernice may have contributed to her not being paired with a celebrity partner. Lauren recently joined Giovanni on his Let Me Entertain You tour.
On X, one fan wrote: "Why hasn't @laurenmayoakley been given a partner this year? ? Booooo." Hope this isn't something kind of punishment for her remaining close professionally to Gio.
"Will miss seeing your amazing teaching this year, Lauren!" Another fan commented: "Do you think it's anything to do with her supporting Gio?" Meanwhile, on Lauren's Instagram, a fan asked: "Am I right in thinking that it is because Lauren is supporting Giovanni on his tour?"
The BBC has been contacted for comment.
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday, September 21 on BBC One