Giovanni Pernice’s Journey: From Palermo to the Spotlight
Giovanni Pernice, a Sicilian dancer renowned for his perfectionism, has been a professional on “Strictly Come Dancing” since 2015. However, recent reports reveal a storm of allegations from former contestants regarding their difficult experiences working with him. Pernice, who has been described as a “perfectionist,” has denied these claims and is eager to clear his name.
Allegations and Controversies
In March, a significant development unfolded when it was reported that Amanda Abbington, Ranvir Singh, and Laura Whitmore met for a “tearful summit” to discuss their challenging experiences with Pernice. Pernice has strongly denied any abusive teaching methods. This week, a male celebrity has also come forward with new allegations, aiding an ongoing investigation into Pernice’s behavior.
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Pernice’s Departure from Strictly
Recently, it was reported that Pernice had decided to leave “Strictly Come Dancing.” An internal memo circulated at the BBC allegedly omitted his name from the list of this year’s professional dancers. According to sources, Pernice wishes to focus on other TV projects, having achieved significant milestones on the show, including winning the trophy in 2021 and reaching the final four times. The BBC has not confirmed or denied these reports, stating that the professional dancers for 2024 will be announced in due course.
The Struggles Behind the Scenes
The 33-year-old dancer, who has faced rumors and allegations, defended himself in a podcast, expressing disappointment over Abbington’s departure from the show for medical reasons. Pernice, known for his dedication and high standards, stated that his perfectionism stems from his commitment to making his celebrity partners shine on the dance floor.
Past Partnerships and Public Perception
Pernice’s intense approach has been noted before. Laura Whitmore, his partner in 2016, previously spoke about feeling broken mentally and physically due to her experience. Despite these claims, Pernice has had successful partnerships on the show. His win with Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021, Strictly’s first deaf contestant, was celebrated for its boundary-breaking performances, including a silent dance that won a Bafta TV award.
Pernice’s Background and Career
Born in Palermo, Sicily, in 1990, Pernice left home at 14 to pursue his dream of becoming a professional dancer. Training in Bologna, he specialized in Latin dance and eventually won the Italian Open Championship in 2012. His journey on “Strictly Come Dancing” began in 2015, and he now holds the record for the most perfect 10s awarded on the show.
Personal Life and Work Ethic
Pernice has described himself as a workaholic, dedicating his life to dance. This intense focus has affected his personal relationships, as he often struggles to balance romance with his demanding career. Despite the challenges, Pernice remains committed to his craft, constantly striving for excellence.
Future Endeavors
Despite the controversies, Pernice continues to engage with his audience. Recently, he appeared in the BBC travel show “Adventures in Spain” with fellow Strictly pro Anton du Beke. The series showcased a different side of Pernice, highlighting his personality and adventures outside the dance floor.
The Ongoing Story
The full truth behind the allegations and Pernice’s teaching methods remains unclear. As investigations continue, the story of Giovanni Pernice, the dancer who captivated audiences with his talent and drive, is far from over.
