Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke skillfully dodged questions regarding Giovanni Pernice’s potential return to the hit BBC dance show, 

months after the network upheld several bullying complaints against him.

During an appearance on Good Morning Britain, Du Beke was quizzed about his former co-star’s future on Strictly, 

but rather than addressing the controversy directly, he chose to steer the conversation towards Pernice’s recent achievements and their upcoming tour.

Giovanni Pernice’s Strictly Absence Following Bullying Allegations

Pernice was noticeably absent from Strictly Come Dancing’s 2024 series after facing allegations from his former celebrity dance partner, actress Amanda Abbington. 

Abbington accused him of fostering a “toxic environment” and engaging in “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying”.

Although Pernice denied any allegations of abusive or threatening behavior, a BBC inquiry upheld some of the complaints lodged against him. 

While the investigation determined that there had been no physical aggression, it did confirm instances of verbal bullying and harassment.

Anton Du Beke’s Awkward Response on GMB

During his Good Morning Britain interview, hosts Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid took the opportunity to ask Du Beke about reports suggesting he would personally welcome Pernice back to Strictly.

Madeley posed the question directly, saying:

“It has been reported that you personally would welcome Giovanni Pernice back onto Strictly. We know that the BBC upheld six of the bullying complaints, but you say you would welcome him back. That’s sticking your head above the parapet—why are you doing that?”

Rather than giving a straightforward answer, Du Beke appeared visibly uncomfortable and laughed before responding:

“That is a very good question… I preferred talking about the golf.”

Instead of addressing the controversy, he pivoted the discussion to Pernice’s success on the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, where he won the competition alongside actress Bianca Guaccero.

“I was delighted for Giovanni last autumn because he went over to Italy to do Strictly Come Dancing and he won that with the lovely Bianca. He was delighted to win that…” he said, skillfully avoiding any discussion about the bullying allegations.

Susanna Reid Redirects the Conversation

Before Du Beke could be pressed further, Susanna Reid interrupted to ask about his and Pernice’s upcoming summer tour, giving the judge another opportunity to sidestep the original question.

“We are going on tour. I will be seeing him in the summer when we go back out on the road, so I am looking forward to seeing him again,” Du Beke stated.

“I love being on stage with him and performing with him. I have known him for a long time, and we have got a wonderful company as well, so all in all…” he continued, trailing off without ever addressing whether he believes Pernice should return to Strictly.

A Close Bond On and Off Screen

Du Beke and Pernice have maintained a strong friendship both on and off the dance floor. In addition to working together on Strictly Come Dancing, they have co-hosted several BBC travel shows, including Anton & Giovanni’s Adventures in Sicily and Anton & Giovanni’s Adventures in Spain. Their professional partnership is set to continue with a new stage tour beginning in June, where they will once again share the spotlight.

Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding Pernice, Du Beke’s reluctance to engage in discussions about the allegations suggests that he remains supportive of his longtime friend.

Struggles Behind the Scenes?

While Du Beke remains a prominent figure on Strictly, reports have surfaced suggesting he has faced difficulties selling tickets for his latest stage show. According to sources, ticket prices were recently reduced due to lower-than-expected sales, leading to speculation about whether the controversy surrounding Pernice has had an indirect impact on Du Beke’s projects.

What’s Next for Giovanni Pernice?

As of now, it remains unclear whether Giovanni Pernice will return to Strictly Come Dancing for future seasons. The BBC has yet to make an official statement on his standing with the show, and with the investigation confirming multiple complaints, his future remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, Anton Du Beke’s refusal to directly answer questions about his former co-star suggests that, despite their close friendship, the controversy remains a sensitive topic. Whether the BBC will extend an invitation for Pernice to return or distance itself from the dancer altogether is yet to be seen.

For now, fans will have to wait for an official announcement from Strictly Come Dancing regarding its 2025 professional line-up.

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