Giovanni Pernice is reportedly eyeing up a return to Strictly Come Dancing after being cleared of several serious allegations made by his 2023 dance partner, Amanda Abbington. The professional dancer, who left the BBC show earlier this year after nearly a decade amid the controversy, which included claims by Abbington that he bullied her, is said to be keen to get back on the famous dance floor after many of the more serious claims against him were reportedly dismissed. The dancer is currently in Rome, where he is appearing on the Italian version of Strictly, Ballando con le Stelle.
His contract there is thought to be for one season, and he is set to return to the UK in 2025 for a major tour from January to July, sparking speculation that he may return to Strictly afterwards. A source told The Mirror: "Giovanni has not given up on appearing on the Strictly stage. As far as he is concerned, he has been cleared and there is no reason why he couldn’t return.
“He has told his pals he is hoping to be back next year and is keen to speak to the BBC about it." The source added: "He still feels very much part of the fold, and has a massive fan base who would no doubt welcome him back, but of course the final decision will be made by BBC bosses." Abbington described her time working with Pernice as "one of the worst" experiences of her life, making further claims in a recent Newsnight interview.
She eventually withdrew from Strictly citing personal and medical reasons, and later re.