Strictly Come Dancing pro Giovanni Pernice is reportedly making a return to the dance floor next week.
However, this time it will be on foreign soil, as he has allegedly been recruited for the Italian version of the show, Ballando con le Stelle.
The Mail on Sunday has disclosed that despite an ongoing BBC investigation into bullying allegations made by his former partner, Amanda Abbington, the Italian dancer will join the show. Giovanni, who strongly refutes these accusations, is set to be unveiled as one of the professional dancers this Sunday, with rehearsals commencing next week.
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Just two weeks ago, there were doubts that the bosses of the Italian show would sign him due to the unresolved allegations. However, following reports indicating scant evidence and ‘thin’ claims from Abbington, they have decided to bring him onboard, much to his delight.
(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
An insider revealed: “Gio is thrilled, he has been hoping that it would happen, he had everything crossed. He is so excited that he can keep on dancing and what makes it all the more lovely is that it will be in his home country.”
“The deadline has been looming and the BBC has been on pause with its result but the Ballando bosses love him, they adore him, and they have now signed him. It is absolutely horrendous for Gio. He has been stuck in limbo and has been unable to move on with his life. It will be a lovely, lovely boost for him.”, reports Birmingham Live.
(Image: PA)
Ballando con le Stelle first aired in 2005 – a year after Strictly’s UK debut. However, not everyone thinks Giovanni should get another shot at TV fame.
Reality TV star Nicola McLean argues the BBC needs to wrap up the investigation before Giovanni is allowed to star on any other TV show. Nicola told Daily Star: “Before they give Giovanni a chance, I think that the investigation with the BBC and Strictly needs to be fully investigated and closed.
“Because if he’s been doing what the women have said then he doesn’t deserve a chance on a show like that. I don’t think that people who are bullying celebrity contestants deserve a chance.
(Image: Saving Grace/YouTube)
“It’s also really sad how women have spoken up about this, and yet, it’s the women that are getting the trolling. It’s the women who are being victim-blamed yet again.
“So I think it’s actually insulting to even put them in the running for this show, which I think is one of the best shows on telly. I stand with the women, why would they lie?
“I wouldn’t want to watch him on it. I think we should all boycott if that’s the case.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
