Giovanni Pernice could be getting set for a fresh start in his native Italy according to reports. The former Strictly Come Dancing pro, who has been axed from next year’s lineup, is reportedly in talks to appear on Dancing With the Stars Italy, which is called Ballando con le Stelle.
“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,” a source told MailOnline.
Express.co.uk has contacted a representative for Giovanni Pernice for comment.
If he were to take the job on Ballando con le Stelle it would be his first TV role since departing Strictly. He is currently on tour alongside Strictly judge Anton Du Beke in their show, Together.
His live show commitments end on July 21, which frees him up to film Dancing With the Stars when it begins shooting in August should he sign up for it.
The 33-year-old professional dancer has been embroiled in controversy for months after his most recent appearance on the BBC dance show due to allegations about his behaviour, which he has denied.
He was partnered with actress Amanda Abbington, who left the show prematurely and later claimed she suffered from PTSD.
The BBC reportedly initiated an internal investigation after receiving complaints from several other stars who had worked with him on the show.
Express.co.uk previously contacted Giovanni’s representatives and the BBC for comment.
The allegations don’t appear to have affected his popularity with fans as shown by the opening night of the tour at the Beck Theatre in London.
Gio teased his Instagram followers with a short clip. “So we are in Haye tonight for opening night,” he said. “It’s going very well so far. So far so good but it seems like we’re performing for ourselves because well…”
Anton added: “Well I thought we’d have a full house.” Gio then replied: “Okay well who wants to watch the show,” before the pair parted and the lights went up to reveal a huge audience all cheering for the pair as a “sold out” emoji flashed on screen.
He was then seen walking out in front of the crowd with the house lights up where he soaked in the applause for several moments.