Giovanni Pernice has officially made his return — and fans are absolutely loving it.
The Italian dance star sent Strictly Come Dancing viewers into a frenzy this week after announcing his comeback on social media, prompting an outpouring of support and excitement from loyal followers who were thrilled to see him back in the spotlight.
After stepping away from Strictly last summer following nine glittering years on the BBC One show, Giovanni has hardly slowed down. In fact, his latest update proves that his absence was anything but quiet.
A Simple Post That Sparked Big Reactions
Marking his return to X after more than a year away, Giovanni shared a stylish photo of himself perched on a chair in a dressing room — relaxed, confident, and unmistakably Gio. Alongside the snap, he wrote:
“It’s been a while. I’m back! How are we?”
That was all it took.
Fans immediately flooded the comments, delighted to see the dancer reappear online.
“We’ve missed you!” wrote one follower.
“Good to see you back,” said another.
A third added simply: “Great to see you back again.”
The message was clear — Giovanni’s return had been eagerly awaited.
Life After Strictly: Busier Than Ever
Although he left Strictly Come Dancing, Giovanni’s dance career has continued to soar.
In late 2024, he was crowned champion on Italy’s Ballando con le Stelle — the Italian equivalent of Strictly — alongside his professional partner, actress Bianca Guaccero. The pair’s on-screen chemistry soon turned into a real-life romance, making the victory even sweeter.
After the win, Giovanni returned to the UK to tour, and once that wrapped up in May, he barely paused before hitting the road again — this time alongside close friend and Strictly judge Anton Du Beke. He also made a triumphant return to Italy as a professional dancer on Ballando con le Stelle, cementing his status as an international ballroom favourite.
Celebrating Life’s Milestones
Giovanni’s recent return comes just months after another major moment — his 35th birthday. The dancer marked the occasion by sharing a relaxed photo of himself soaking up the sun on a boat, captioning it:
“Level up… 35 today.”
Friends and fellow Strictly stars were quick to send their love. Head judge Shirley Ballas wished him a heartfelt happy birthday, while Anton Du Beke joked:
“Finally the same age as me! Happy birthday my love.”
Messages also poured in from pro dancer Kai Widdrington, former contestant Gemma Atkinson, football legend John Terry, and Giovanni’s former dance partner Michelle Visage — all proof of the lasting relationships he’s built throughout his career.
“Good to See You Back”
Now, with his simple but confident “I’m back” declaration, Giovanni has reminded fans why they fell in love with him in the first place. Whether on stage, on tour, or online, his presence continues to draw warmth and loyalty from viewers around the world.
And if this return is anything to go by, Giovanni Pernice’s next chapter is only just beginning.
