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Strictly make major decision about whether ‘popular’ Giovanni Pernice can ever return to show after bullying row
A BBC investigation upheld six out of 17 complaints against the dancer
GIOVANNI PERNICE will not be returning to Strictly following the bullying row, BBC bosses have ruled.
Show execs felt a comeback for the dancer was not possible after they apologised to his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington, 50, over her ordeal last series.
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They discussed his future after a BBC investigation upheld six out of 17 complaints against Giovanni, 34.
A source at the BBC said: “While it’s recognised Giovanni remains popular with a lot of Strictly viewers, there is a robust acceptance that he can’t return to the show, ever.
“His time on Strictly is over. There’s no way back for him.
"That’s not a formal punishment, that’s a decision taken at a corporate level, concerned with protecting the reputation of what is a huge Saturday night family show.”
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The BBC changed their processes in light of the probe, including getting chaperones to monitor couples during rehearsals.
Italian Giovanni was asked by Christine Lampard in a recent ITV1 interview, “Will we see you back on Strictly?”.
He replied: “Never say never”, adding:
“I’ve got a tour coming up in January, so I will definitely come back to the UK from January to July, and then, who knows?”
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We revealed, after the Beeb probe lasting several months, that Amanda planned to sue the Corporation.
The BBC declined to comment.
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Giovanni Pernice reveals huge new UK gig after Strictly probe results
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