Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has sent a message to Giovanni Pernice, just days after he was left out of the line-up of the 2024 series.
Taking to social media, Shirley joked that she was “very sad” as she came all the way to Chorley Wood to do a paperback signing of her new book, Murder on the Dancefloor.
She quipped that “not a soul” has turned up, but later panned the camera round to show a full town hall with audience members cheering. Shirley also added the caption: “@giovannipernice…nobody came to watch the show,” with an added wink emoji.
Shirley copied Giovanni’s style as he regularly paces around the stage during his live tours before turning the camera round to the audience and allowing them to cheer loudly.
It was confirmed just a few days ago that Giovanni will not be involved in Strictly Come Dancing later this year. Shirley will be returning as a judge alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton du Beke.
The Italian dancer hit the headlines last year when his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington quit Strictly after just five weeks. According to new reports, Giovanni allegedly left Amanda Abbington “bruised” during rehearsals.
Giovanni has since hit back at the “false claims” on Instagram. He said in a statement: “To my fans and followers. Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media.
“As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false. 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.
“I am so happy to be back on tour. Thank you all for your continued support – you messages and love mean so very much to me. I will hopefully see many of you very soon and I look forward to clearing my name. With love, Giovanni.”
Express.co.uk have previously contacted Giovanni Pernice and the BBC for comment.
According to The Sun, safeguards are now being introduced for dancers and celebrity contestants on the show, including counsellors and the offer of post-show therapy.
They also reported that psychological testing will be implemented to ensure that the contestants are “robust” enough to handle the heightened media attention.
A source told the publication: “Strictly is the jewel in the crown of their schedule, and upwards of 10 million people tune in weekly — that’s a lot of pressure for everyone involved.
“The BBC is under enormous pressure to ensure this series goes without a hitch. Cameras will be installed pretty much everywhere and a counsellor will be on call 24/7.”