The BBC has announced that professional dancer Giovanni Pernice will not feature in the 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing. This decision comes on the back of a controversial 2023 season, which was marred by escalating complaints and an internal inquiry into alleged threatening behavior and abuse. Pernice refutes the allegations and maintains he has done nothing wrong.
Celebrity participant Amanda Abbington’s abrupt departure from the 2023 season after just five weeks fueled speculation about a potential rift with her dance partner, Pernice. Abbington’s omission of Pernice from her farewell message and subsequent absence from the “Class of 2023” group performance in the finale further intensified rumors of discord between the pair.
In early 2024, Abbington requested footage of their dance rehearsals, citing reasons related to mild PTSD, and is rumored to have considered legal action. Sadly, after sharing her diagnosis, Abbington received death threats.
It is reported that she found solace and support in conversations with Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore, both former celebrity dance partners of Pernice. The three women are said to have connected and shared emotional, heartwarming moments, reflecting on their individual experiences with the dancer.
Known for his crisp choreography and suave demeanour, Pernice identifies as a “perfectionist,” driven by a desire to see his partners excel. He attributes his behaviour to high ambitions and a “place of love and wanting to win.”
The BBC’s choice to omit Pernice from the 2024 professional lineup signals a notable change, bringing his nine-year association with the show to a close. His non-inclusion in the official lineup announcement on June 10, 2024, confirmed viewers’ suspicions. Well-loved dancers like Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, and Gorka Marquez are set to return, but Pernice will not be a part of this celebrated line-up.
As Strictly Come Dancing approaches its 20th anniversary this September, the show, despite these recent controversy’s will continue to be a highlight for Saturday night audiences.
