Giovanni Pernice’s fans have been dealt a major blow by the pro dancer – hours after his celebrity partner withdrew from Strictly Come Dancing.
Amanda Abbington and Giovanni were partnered up for this year’s series of the glitzy show. Following their last few performances, the pair marked themselves as strong contenders to lift this year’s Glitterball trophy.
However on Monday (October 23) it was announced that Amanda had quit the show. As exclusively reported by the Daily Star, the actress withdrew following medical concerns. Strictly spin-off show, It Takes Two, confirmed it on the night.
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Reading out the BBC’s statement, Fleur East said: “Amanda Abbington is unable to continue Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition. The show wishes her all the best for the future.”
(Image: PA)
Giovanni himself soon broke his silence on the news of Amanda’s exit. On Instagram snap of himself and Amanda backstage in their pyjamas on his Instagram on Monday (October 23), Giovanni accompanied the photo with a sweet message.
He wrote: “Amanda. I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love @amanda_abbington74 @bbcstrictly.”
(Image: Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)
However, now, in a devastating blow to fans, Giovanni has faced another setback. A venue for one of his upcoming shows in Wales announced its sudden closure.
The dancer was set to take his Let Me Entertain You live tour to St David’s Hall in Cardiff next year January 24, 2024. However fans hoping to see Giovanni strut his stuff will now be disappointed.
A statement on the venue’s official website read: “St David’s Hall will be closed until the new year to undertake additional checks on the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels in the building”. Several other shows have also been cancelled too that were scheduled to take place at St David’s Hall.
(Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston)
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During the weekend, Giovanni was all smiles when he appeared on Strictly by himself. Amanda pulled out of the Saturday night show due to medical reasons but presenter Tess Daly confirmed that she would be allowed to return back to the show next week once she had recovered.
The news of Amanda’s absence over the weekend was also confirmed on Strictly’s spin-off It Takes Two on Friday night. Presenter Janette Manrara told viewers: “We have some breaking news, unfortunately due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend.
“Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, Amanda and Giovanni will return the following week. Amanda we hope you get well soon my love, sending you all the best wishes!”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
