Giovanni Pernice will not return for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, the BBC has confirmed.
The 33-year-old Italian dancer performed at BBC One prime time program for nine years.
Pernice with actress Amanda Abbington in 2023. Photo: BBC
He was not announced as part of the show’s lineup of professional dancers for 2024 after reports that he would not compete.
Pernice rejected the allegations he displayed”abusive or threatening behavior” while working as a professional dancer on the show, following complaints about his conduct.
A law firm acting on behalf of complainants said the broadcaster is “gathering evidence” – but the BBC has not confirmed that no investigation has been launched.
A statement from law firm Carter-Ruck said: “There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC, which is now in the process of gathering evidence.
“As this is still an ongoing matter, no further comment can be made at this stage.”
The Sun, which was first to report suggestions that an investigation was underway, claimed that Pernice had left the show.
In her first year on the show, Sicilian-born Pernice reached the grand final with Coronation Street star Georgia May Foote.
He was last paired with Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, who withdrew from the competition in 2023 citing “personal reasons“.
Pernice lifted the Glitterball Trophy alongside Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021. File photo: PA
In 2021, Pernice lifted the Strictly glitterball trophy alongside EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, who was the first deaf contestant to win.
He also reached the final in 2017 with Debbie McGee and in 2018 with Faye Tozer.
Pernice also holds the Guinness World Record for most kicks and moves in 30 seconds, which he achieved on the BBC’s Strictly It Takes Two in 2016.
Pernice and Nadiya Bychkova perform during the Strictly Come Dancing Professionals UK tour. File photo: PA
In May, Pernice wrote that “you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week”, adding that audiences saw him “passionate and competitive” on the show.
He continued: “No one is more ambitious with my dance partners than me. I have always strived to help them be the best dancers they can be.
“It always came from a feeling of love and wanting to win – for myself and for my dance partners.”
Pernice said he hopes to “clear my name.”
Dancers returning to Strictly this year include Amy Dowden, who was forced to quit last year’s show after being diagnosed with stage three breast cancerand the 2023 winner, Vito Coppola.
This story originally appeared on News.sky.com read the full story
