Giovanni Pernice could return for special Strictly episode - just weeks after 'bullying' probe
Giovanni Pernice could make a return to Strictly Come Dancing as part of a special episode to mark the show’s milestone 20th anniversary, it has been alleged. According to reports, footage of the former Strictly professional could feature in a one-off episode, which is due to air in December, to mark the BBC show’s 20th anniversary.
With 2024 marking two decades since the popular dance contest launched onto our screens, the upcoming episode will allegedly feature “iconic performances and familiar faces past and present” as it takes a look at the show’s time on TV. According to a source, the show could include footage of Giovanni dancing with EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis back in 2021.
Speaking to The Sun, a source said: “Giovanni made history when he won with Rose so footage from their emotional silent performance is set to feature.” The BBC has yet to confirm or deny Giovanni’s involvement, according to the publication.
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OK! has contacted the BBC for comment.
It comes after the results of the BBC probe into his conduct with his 2023 Strictly Come Dancing partner Amanda Abbington were released after she made a series of complaints against him. Releasing the findings, the BBC said that it had upheld “some, but not all, of the complaints made”. It also offered an apology to Amanda and thanked her for coming forward and taking part.
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After the report results were released, Giovanni said that the past six months had been “difficult”. He explained: “Today I'm happy because at the beginning there were very very serious allegations thrown out at me but as of today, none of the serious allegations have been upheld. All the threatening, abusive, harassment behaviour allegations have not been upheld.”
Meanwhile, Amanda has also spoken out following the report. “Despite this vile abuse, I’ve never regretted coming forward, and today’s apology from the BBC is a vindication of my complaint,” she said.
“It’s not just a vindication for me; it’s a vindication for the other people who have contacted me since I made my complaint to express concerns about their own experiences on Strictly Come Dancing. I hope those who have felt unable to speak out now will be more confident that they will be listened to and believed.”
Away from Strictly Come Dancing, Giovanni recently shared his latest career announcement and declared that he’s “back baby” while promoting his upcoming tour. The dancer will head across the UK early next year as part of his Giovanni The Last Dance tour.
