Giovanni Pernice confirms he’s making TV comeback after Strictly exit

giovanni pernice, a man stands clasping his hands and smiling at the camera, he has short dark brown hair and light facial hair, he wears a black shirt and trousers with brown blazer jacket
Giovanni Pernice confirms he’s making TV comeback Dave Benett

Giovanni Pernice has announced his return to TV following his exit from Strictly Come Dancing.

It was confirmed earlier this year that the professional dancer will not be returning for the 2024 series of Strictly following allegations of misconduct during training sessions.

Pernice has denied "any accusations of abusive or threatening behaviour" and said he is "cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation".

The professional dancer has now announced he'll be taking part in the upcoming series of Ballando con le Stelle – the Italian version of Dancing With the Stars.

Related: Strictly 2024 trailer unveils first look as Amy Dowden returns

Sharing the news on Instagram, Pernice wrote: "Hey guys!! I'm delighted to announce that from next week I will be joining the cast of @ballandoconlestelle – the Italian Dancing with the Stars.

"I can't wait to get started and to get back to dancing for all of you! Thank you for all of your continued support!"

Pernice appeared on the 2023 series of Strictly with Sherlock star Amanda Abbington, who quit the show mid-season for "personal reasons".

amanda abbington, giovanni pernice, strictly come dancing 2023
BBC

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Abbington has since pursued a complaint against Strictly over her training with Pernice, though the exact nature of her allegations is still confidential due to the ongoing inquiry.

Another of Pernice's former celebrity partners, Laura Whitmore, also recently accused BBC bosses of "gaslighting" her after she voiced concerns about her experience on the show.

Graziano di Prima is another pro dancer who won't be returning for the new series following allegations he kicked former celebrity partner Zara McDermott during training.

Addressing his exit from the show, di Prima said: "I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime."

Strictly Come Dancing will return Saturday, September 14 on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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