Giovanni Pernice is preparing for a heartfelt return to the dance floor alongside several familiar faces, as he reunites with former Strictly Come Dancing co-stars for a special series of live events in spring and summer 2026 — more than a year after his departure from the BBC show.
The Italian professional dancer, now 35, stepped away from Strictly in 2024 following a highly publicised dispute involving his 2023 celebrity partner Amanda Abbington. Complaints raised about his behaviour during rehearsals led to an internal BBC review. While the most serious allegations of physical aggression were not upheld, some concerns relating to verbal conduct were partially upheld, resulting in an official apology to Abbington. Pernice has consistently denied any abusive or threatening behaviour throughout the process.
Despite the controversy surrounding his exit, Giovanni is now focusing on a new chapter — and it brings him back together with many of the colleagues who shared the ballroom with him for years.
He will appear in a themed dance experience titled Dancing With The Stars, an independent event not affiliated with the BBC. The showcase will see Giovanni share the stage with a star-studded lineup of familiar names, including Anton Du Beke, Gorka Márquez, Kai Widdrington, Janette Manrara, Lauren Oakley and Karen Hauer. Aljaž Škorjanec is also set to take part, making the reunion even more nostalgic for longtime fans.
The events promise an immersive experience for attendees, with organisers teasing “spectacular dance lessons and live showcases” led by the professionals themselves. Guests will also have the opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes stories from the dancers’ Strictly journeys, offering a more personal and intimate insight into life beyond the televised ballroom.
Scheduled to take place over three days at luxury venues such as the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport and the Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor, the experience is expected to attract fans eager to see the dancers perform together once again — this time away from the pressures of live television.
For Giovanni, the reunion marks a significant moment in his ongoing career journey. After a challenging period in the public eye, the event highlights his continued presence within the dance world and the enduring professional bonds he formed during his time on Strictly.
As he steps back into the spotlight alongside familiar faces, the upcoming events signal not only a celebration of dance — but also a chance for renewal, reconnection, and a fresh start beyond the Strictly stage.
