Giovanni Pernice has reportedly signed up for his first British television show since leaving Strictly Come Dancing four years ago. The professional dancer, 35, is said to be joining the cast of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Win, having secretly flown to Thailand to film the gruelling competition series.
Return to UK Screens
Pernice exited the BBC Latin and ballroom show following allegations made by actress Amanda Abbington, who accused him of being “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” during rehearsals. The BBC later apologised to Abbington after an investigation upheld some of her complaints regarding bullying and harassment, though claims of physical aggression were not upheld. Pernice has consistently denied the allegations.
According to a source, producers are “absolutely thrilled” by the signing. “He is a real housewives’ favourite and has an absolutely huge fan base, especially among women, so bosses are hopeful he may draw in a few Strictly fans. He is also incredibly fit and mentally resilient after years of professional dance training,” the insider shared.
The source added: “The fall-out from his Strictly exit was also pretty brutal and, frankly, Giovanni reckons there is nothing that can hurt him now. He is excited to get back to doing what he does best – entertaining and giving himself a real challenge. He is thrilled to be back on screens after a painfully long break. It promises to be an amazing series.”
Moving Forward
Pernice had previously admitted he doubted a return to Strictly would be possible. “I would love to go back on Strictly but I don’t think they’re going to have me on again,” he said. “It wasn’t the most pleasant situation for me. I’m very happy that it’s finished and everybody can move on with their lives.”
Instead, he moved to Italy to work on Ballando con le Stelle, the Italian version of the show. Reflecting on the experience, he said: “It was nice to be able to have that positive communication with people, because once the results of the investigation came out, those people who had left me came back and I was like ‘Hmm, this is not nice.’ You know who your real friends are when you’re at your lowest – and that’s what I missed throughout the whole period.”
Pernice now looks forward to the physical and mental challenges of Celebrity SAS, which is expected to air later this year.
