Anton Du Beke has spoken out about his close friend and former Strictly Come Dancing co-star Giovanni Pernice,
addressing the possibility of his return to the hit BBC dance competition.
The Strictly judge and professional dancer made an appearance on Good Morning Britain on Monday to promote his new golf podcast,
but the conversation quickly shifted to his views on Giovanni’s future in the show.
Anton Responds to Questions About Giovanni’s Future
While chatting with GMB hosts Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid,
Anton was asked about the reports that he would welcome Giovanni back to Strictly. Richard directly questioned him, saying,
“I’ve got a slightly tricky question for you. It’s been reported that you personally would welcome Giovanni Pernice back onto Strictly. We know that the BBC upheld six bullying complaints against him, didn’t uphold others, but you would welcome him back. That’s sticking your head above the parapet. Why would you do that?”
Anton, who has been a longtime friend and collaborator of Giovanni, seemed hesitant to fully address the question but responded, “That’s a very good question. I’d prefer to be talking about the golf.” However, he did acknowledge Giovanni’s recent accomplishments and their continued professional partnership.
Giovanni’s Success in Italy
Rather than directly discussing the allegations or the BBC’s ruling, Anton highlighted Giovanni’s recent success abroad. He shared his happiness for his friend, saying, “I was delighted for Giovanni this autumn because he went over to Italy and did the Strictly Come Dancing there and he won with the brilliant Bianca [actress Bianca Guaccero]. He was delighted to win that and we’re going off on tour this summer, so I’ll be seeing him when we go back out on the road.”
Despite the controversy surrounding Giovanni, the two dancers continue to work together. They have co-hosted two BBC travel documentaries, Anton & Giovanni’s Adventures in Sicily and Anton & Giovanni’s Adventures in Spain, and will soon embark on their live stage tour, Anton & Giovanni: Together Again, starting in June. Anton spoke warmly about their working relationship, adding, “I love being on stage with him and performing with him, and I’ve known him a long time. We’ve got a wonderful company as well, so all in all, it’s a great show.”
The Controversy Surrounding Giovanni
Giovanni Pernice stepped away from Strictly Come Dancing in 2024 after his 2023 celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington, accused him of creating a “toxic environment” during rehearsals. She alleged that he engaged in “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying.” Following these claims, the BBC conducted an internal investigation, which upheld some of the complaints but dismissed others.
While Giovanni denied any form of abusive behavior, the BBC reportedly acknowledged verbal bullying and harassment. However, they stated that there was no evidence of physical aggression. The scandal cast doubt on Giovanni’s future with the show, and he was notably absent from the professional dancer lineup for the 2024 series.
Giovanni Speaks Out About Strictly Future
Despite the controversy, Giovanni has not ruled out a return to Strictly Come Dancing, though he remains uncertain about whether the BBC will offer him a place on the show again. In a recent interview with Heat magazine, he addressed the possibility, saying, “I would love to go back on Strictly but I don’t think they’re going to have me on again.”
Reflecting on the difficult period, he admitted, “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.”
Since stepping away from Strictly, Giovanni has focused on other projects, including his tour with Anton and performances across the UK and Italy. However, it remains unclear whether the BBC will reconsider his position on the show in the future.
Anton and Giovanni’s Friendship Remains Strong
Regardless of Giovanni’s status on Strictly, his bond with Anton remains solid. The two dancers have worked closely for years and continue to support each other both professionally and personally. Anton’s reluctance to comment directly on the allegations suggests he is keen to focus on their friendship and shared projects rather than the controversy.
As fans eagerly await the start of their stage tour, it’s clear that Giovanni still has strong allies in the industry, with Anton standing by him despite the past year’s challenges. However, whether Strictly Come Dancing will ever welcome him back to the dancefloor remains to be seen.
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