GIO'S RETURN
Giovanni Pernice returns to screens for Strictly special – despite Amanda Abbington bullying probe
A bullying probe found instances of Gio using 'belittling' language towards former contestant Amanda Abbington
GIOVANNI Pernice is seen in Strictly’s 20th anniversary one-off special — despite a BBC probe into his behaviour towards Amanda Abbington upholding six of her complaints.
The Italian features in a trailer performing his silent dance from 2021 with EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, 30, the first deaf contestant to win Strictly.
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It is not known if he has returned to take part and speak in the documentary.
The trailer, played during last night’s final, also features couples who found romance thanks to the “Strictly curse”.
Presenter Stacey Dooley, 37, appears with fiance Kevin Clifton, 42, and YouTuber Joe Sugg, 33, with girlfriend Dianne Buswell, 35.
The show is described as a “sparkling celebration of two decades of Strictly” after it “captured the hearts of millions” with its debut in 2004.
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It adds: “With exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with past contestants, judges, and production teams, the film delves into the evolution of the show, its cultural impact, and the unforgettable moments that have made Strictly a beloved institution in television.
“Marking 20 years of glitz, glamour and dancing, this celebratory programme reflects on how the show has transformed into a global phenomenon while maintaining its core charm and appeal.”
It comes after Giovanni quit in May after nine years on Strictly as he faced allegations over his training methods with previous celebrity partners — including 50-year-old actress Amanda.
She departed last year’s show in week six, citing medical reasons, but later accused Giovanni of bullying.
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The BBC’s five-month investigation, which was published in September, cleared Giovanni of ten of the 16 allegations made against him.
Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on his future at the BBC after Amanda Abbington bullying row
But it found instances of him using “belittling” language towards her, and the Beeb apologised to Amanda.
Both pairs found love on Strictly in 2018.
- Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Fabulous Years is set to air next Saturday.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that 'wishes her the best'.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: "Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni's dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda's PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni's training methods weren't acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn't feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a "nightmare situation".
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