The BBC has confirmed that Giovanni Pernice will not return to Strictly Come Dancing for the upcoming series, following an escalating scandal involving allegations of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' from former dance partners. The decision marks the end of a tumultuous period for the show, which faced its biggest crisis in its 20-year history.
Pernice, 33, has been at the centre of complaints from actor Amanda Abbington and other former partners, including Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh. Abbington withdrew from the 2023 series after five weeks, citing medical and personal reasons, and later requested BBC footage of training sessions, claiming she suffered mild PTSD. Law firm Carter-Ruck stated there were 'numerous serious complaints' about Pernice's conduct, which he has strenuously denied.
The scandal has reportedly made it difficult for producers to sign female talent for the forthcoming series, with potential candidates wary of being paired with Pernice. Fellow professional dancers are said to be 'deeply worried' about the lack of psychological assessments for celebrities. The BBC has faced criticism for its slow response, with the row lasting eight months before action was taken.
Despite the allegations, Pernice has been a standout performer on the show, reaching four finals in nine years and winning the glitterball in 2021 with Rose Ayling-Ellis. Some former partners, including Debbie McGee, have publicly supported him. However, the accumulation of complaints ultimately led to his departure, as the BBC sought to protect the show's reputation ahead of its landmark 20th anniversary series.
