Craig Revel Horwood has questioned why anyone would walk away from Strictly Come Dancing following rumours that Giovanni Pernice has quit the show.
Giovanni has been a pro on the BBC ballroom contest for nine years but there have been whisperings about his teaching methods and an alleged clash with 2023 contestant Amanda Abbington. It has now been reported that he has quit the show, although that hasn’t been confirmed.
One person who clearly isn’t going anywhere is judge Craig, who told The Sun that he loves sitting on the panel alongside Shirley Ballas and co.
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Quizzed about whether he’d ever leave, he replied: “It’s the best job I’ve ever had on a Saturday – are you joking?” The star also said he is a huge fan of the way the programme “waves the flag for dancing” and that the series doesn’t need to be changed.
“I love the fact that so many people have taken up dance because of it, and that it’s won the hearts and minds of not only this nation, but about 61 countries worldwide,” he said. “I mean, what’s not to love?”
Rumours about Giovanni’s teaching approach started swirling last year when his celeb partner Amanda left the competition early. The dancer has previously referred to himself as a “perfectionist”, and this week posted a message on Instagram saying he is “passionate” but rejecting any question of “abusive or threatening behaviour”.
“To my dear fans,” he wrote. “You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.
“Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name. Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive.
“No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me. I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners.” “Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!” he wrote.
Daily Star contacted the BBC and a representative for Giovanni on reports he had left Strictly. A BBC spokesperson said: “The Professional Dancers for Strictly Come Dancing 2024 will be announced in due course.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
