The BBC has officially announced that Giovanni Pernice will not be returning for the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing. The 33-year-old dancer from Italy has been a part of the popular BBC One primetime show for nine years.
Despite reports indicating he would not be competing, Pernice was not included in this year’s lineup of professional dancers. This follows allegations of “abusive or threatening behavior” during his time on the show, which he has vehemently denied. While complaints have been made, the BBC has neither confirmed nor denied launching an investigation.
A statement released by the law firm Carter-Ruck stated, “There have been numerous serious complaints filed against the BBC, and they are in the process of gathering evidence. As this matter is ongoing, no further comments can be provided at this stage.”
In his debut season, Pernice made it to the grand final with Georgia May Foote from Coronation Street. He later partnered with Amanda Abbington from Sherlock, who withdrew from the competition in 2023 for “personal reasons“.
In previous years, Pernice clinched the Strictly glitterball trophy with Rose Ayling-Ellis, the first deaf contestant to win. He also made it to the final in 2017 with Debbie McGee and in 2018 with Faye Tozer. Additionally, Pernice holds the Guinness World Record for the most jive kick and flicks in 30 seconds, achieved during the BBC’s show Strictly It Takes Two in 2016.
Pernice responded in May to the allegations, expressing surprise and emphasizing his passion and competitiveness as a dancer. He stated, “I have always aimed to support my dance partners to be the best they can be out of love and a desire to win.” Pernice has affirmed his intention to prove his innocence.
Among the returning dancers for this season are Amy Dowden, who had to withdraw from the previous year due to a diagnosis of stage three breast cancer, and the 2023 winner Vito Coppola, who triumphed alongside Coronation Street actress Ellie Leech.