Giovanni Pernice is stepping back into familiar territory — and back alongside familiar faces — more than a year after his dramatic departure from Strictly Come Dancing. The Italian dancer, 35, is set to reunite with several of his former co-stars for a special live dance experience, marking a significant moment in his post-Strictly journey.
Giovanni left the BBC series in 2024 following a high-profile bullying probe linked to actress Amanda Abbington. While a BBC report did not uphold claims of physical aggression or threatening behaviour against him, complaints of verbal bullying and harassment led the corporation to issue an apology. At the time, Giovanni said he was “pleased the report has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour,” a statement that signaled both relief and closure.
Now, the dancer is preparing to rejoin his Strictly peers for a themed event titled Dancing With The Stars, an experience that highlights how closely connected he has remained to his former colleagues despite the controversy surrounding his exit. Importantly, the event is not affiliated with the BBC, though it is understood that participation has been approved under the corporation’s external work guidelines.
The star-studded lineup includes Anton Du Beke, Aljaž Škorjanec, Gorka Marquez, Kai Widdrington, Janette Manrara, Lauren Oakley, and Karen Hauer. Together, they will deliver an intimate dance showcase combining live performances, workshops, and behind-the-scenes stories from their Strictly journeys.
The event will run between April and July 2026 at two luxury venues — the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel & Spa in Newport and Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor. Organisers promise a unique, up-close experience, teasing “three days of spectacular dance lessons and showcases” where fans can learn directly from the stars and hear personal insights from their time on the iconic show.
Away from the dance floor, Giovanni has remained very much in the public eye. Earlier this year, he stunned fans by sharing a dramatic five-week body transformation, proudly displaying his sculpted physique in a shirtless before-and-after post that quickly went viral.
His personal life has also taken a happier turn. Giovanni has found love again with Italian TV star Bianca Guaccero following his split from Molly Brown during the BBC investigation. The pair went on to win the Italian version of the show, Ballando con le Stelle, with Giovanni later describing Bianca as “exactly what I needed” during a challenging chapter of his life.
Meanwhile, Amanda Abbington has spoken openly about the emotional toll of the controversy, admitting earlier this year that she was unsure how the industry now views her. While acknowledging the unexpected fallout, she said she stood by her actions and felt hopeful about the future, adding that speaking up was something she was ultimately proud of.
As Giovanni prepares to share the stage once again with his former Strictly colleagues, the reunion feels symbolic — a blend of resilience, redemption, and moving forward. Whether seen as a fresh start or a powerful reminder of unfinished business, one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Giovanni as he dances back into the spotlight. 💃✨
