Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' just weeks after 'bullying' probe

Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice is reportedly set to return to the BBC show later this year as part of a special episode to mark its 20th anniversary

Giovanni Pernice might be making a comeback to Strictly Come Dancing in a special episode celebrating the show's 20th anniversary, according to rumours.

It's suggested that footage of the former Strictly professional could be included in a one-off episode set to air in December, commemorating the BBC show's 20-year milestone.

As 2024 marks two decades since the beloved dance competition first graced our screens, the forthcoming episode is rumoured to showcase "iconic performances and familiar faces past and present", reflecting on the show's television history.

Speculation suggests that the programme could feature clips of Giovanni dancing with EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis from 2021. A source told The Sun: "Giovanni made history when he won with Rose so footage from their emotional silent performance is set to feature."

The BBC has yet to confirm or deny Giovanni's participation, as per the reports. This follows the release of the BBC investigation results into his behaviour with his 2023 Strictly Come Dancing partner Amanda Abbington, following a series of complaints she lodged against him reports OK!. In releasing the findings, the BBC stated it had upheld "some, but not all, of the complaints made".

The corporation also extended an apology to Amanda and expressed gratitude for her willingness to come forward and participate.

After the findings were made public, Giovanni described the last half-year as "difficult". He shared his relief: "Today I'm happy because at the beginning there were very very serious allegations thrown out at me but as of today, none of the serious allegations have been upheld. All the threatening, abusive, harassment behaviour allegations have not been upheld."

Amanda also gave her reaction to the report's outcome. She expressed: "Despite this vile abuse, I've never regretted coming forward, and today's apology from the BBC is a vindication of my complaint," she stated.

She further added: "It's not just a vindication for me; it's a vindication for the other people who have contacted me since I made my complaint to express concerns about their own experiences on Strictly Come Dancing. I hope those who have felt unable to speak out now will be more confident that they will be listened to and believed."

In other news, away from the dance floor, Giovanni excitedly announced his career move, exclaiming he's "back baby" while promoting his forthcoming tour. The professional dancer is set to travel the UK early next year with his show, Giovanni The Last Dance tour.

Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturday at 6:25pm on BBC One