Giovanni Pernice is in advanced talks to join the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, MailOnline can exclusively reveal.
The former Strictly professional, 33, was axed from the British series after being accused of bullying by actress Amanda Abbington, 50, who he was partnered with last year.
BBC bosses are currently investigating the complaints made against Giovanni, scouring years of footage during rehearsals featuring the dancer, who continues to withstand his innocence.
Presenter Laura Whitmore, 39, and Good Morning Britain‘s Ranvir Singh, 46, are also believed to have reported their mistreatment to the broadcaster, having been paired with Giovanni on the show.
MailOnline understands Giovanni, who ‘rejects any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour’, is now preparing to begin a new role on Dancing with the Stars in Italy, in a tactical move he hopes will give him the chance to carry on performing.
Giovanni Pernice is in advanced talks to join the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, MailOnline can exclusively reveal
The former Strictly professional was axed from the British series after being accused of bullying by actress Amanda Abbington, who he was partnered with last year
BBC bosses are currently investigating the complaints made against Giovanni, scouring years of footage during rehearsals featuring the dancer, who continues to withstand his innocence (pictured in June)
A source told MailOnline: ‘Giovanni is in advanced talks to join the Italian version of Strictly, Dancing with the Stars.
‘Bosses are really keen to sign him as a judge given his fame and status in the UK but are also open to the dancer performing as a professional, if he still wants to compete.
‘It’s a great move for Giovanni, who has weighed up the possibility of doing shows like I’m A Celeb, but dance will always be his passion.
‘All he wants is a fresh start and to join Dancing with the Stars in Italy will certainly give him the new chapter he’s been hoping for.’
Joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars in Italy will be Giovanni’s first big job since his Strictly axe.
He is currently performing alongside judge Anton Du Beke in their touring show and will be appearing on Friday night in Tunbridge Wells.
The live shows finish on July 21 with Giovanni’s Dancing with the Stars schedule believed to begin in August.
Giovanni’s former Strictly co-star Vito Coppola won the Italian version of the show, Ballando con le Stelle, in 2021, before triumphing with Ellie Leach during last year’s UK competition.
Joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars in Italy will be Giovanni’s first big job since his Strictly axe
The dancer joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and remained on the lineup until this year, when bosses axed him amid continued speculation about his training methods
It has been reported that Giovanni’s former Strictly partners Amanda, Laura, and Ranvir met to discuss the Italian’s training style and their negative experiences with him as their mentor
The dancer joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and remained on the lineup until this year, when bosses axed him amid continued speculation about his training methods.
Legal firm Carter Ruck confirmed it has contacted the BBC regarding ‘numerous serious complaints’ about his alleged behaviour while filming Strictly.
It has been reported that Giovanni’s former Strictly partners Amanda, Laura, and Ranvir met to discuss the Italian’s training style and their negative experiences with him as their mentor.
In response to their allegations, Giovanni posted a statement on his Instagram, insisting the BBC investigation will eventually clear his name.
He said: ‘As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.
‘I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth. As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.’
MailOnline has contacted Giovanni’s representative for comment.