GIOVANNI Pernice’s Strictly Come Dancing future has been left in doubt after he suffered a nasty injury.
The 32-year-old has been forced to take a step back on his current tour with Anton Du Beke after twisting his ankle.
The news comes just as the Strictly pros have returned to the studio for rehearsals – meaning he’ll also miss out on a few of the group numbers.
Giovanni told his followers: "As you probably know I'm on tour at the moment with Anton and doing one of the dances I did twist my ankle on stage.
"I have just been to the doctor, to the physio, and he advised to rest for a few weeks which means I'm not going to be able to dance at the weekend. I know a few people are coming. I will still be there to entertain you with my other half Anton Du Beke. We will be singing along but unfortunately Anton will do the dancing bit."
He continued: "This also means that I am going to miss a few of the Strictly professional group numbers but I just need to give some rest to my ankle and come back stronger than ever for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing which I'm really looking forward to."
Read More on Strictly
The star’s fans rushed to offer him their support, with one person writing: “Hope your ankle recovers quickly so that you are back dancing soon! Lots of love and best wishes.”
A second said: “Please rest and take care. Wishing you a speedy recovery.”
While a third commented: “Ohhh gutted for you! But rest up and take it easy. Short term sacrifices for long term gains.”
Giovanni won Strictly Come Dancing in 2021 with Rose Ayling-Ellis, but was knocked out of the competition early with Richie Anderson last year.