In a moment that captured the hearts of viewers nationwide, Strictly Come Dancing's presenting duo Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly found themselves visibly emotional during Saturday night's live show. The veteran hosts struggled to maintain their composure while paying tribute to departing professional dancer Giovanni Pernice.
The Emotional Farewell That Shook the Ballroom
As the BBC broadcast unfolded, Winkleman's voice noticeably wavered while addressing Pernice's exit from the beloved dance competition. "We are all so, so sad," she confessed, her words heavy with genuine emotion that resonated throughout the studio.
Daly, standing alongside her co-host, appeared equally moved, her professional composure cracking under the weight of the moment. The raw display of sentiment from two presenters known for their polished delivery underscored the deep bonds formed behind the scenes of the hit entertainment programme.
Giovanni's Heartfelt Response
The 33-year-old Italian dancer, who joined Strictly in 2015, broke his silence following the emotional tribute. Taking to social media, Pernice expressed his gratitude to the devoted fanbase that has supported him throughout his nine-year tenure on the show.
"You are the BEST fans in the world," he declared in a touching Instagram post. "Thank you for your support - you are incredible and I love you all."
A Stellar Strictly Legacy
During his impressive run on the programme, Pernice established himself as one of the most accomplished professional dancers in Strictly history. His partnership with actress Rose Ayling-Ellis culminated in a spectacular 2021 victory that captivated the nation and earned them a BAFTA TV Award.
The dancer's departure marks the end of an era for the BBC flagship programme, leaving fans and colleagues alike reflecting on his significant contributions to the show's success and entertainment value over nearly a decade.
