Craig Revel Horwood fuels rumours Giovanni Pernice will return to Strictly as he backs him in bullying row

STRICTLY Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has backed professional dancer Giovanni Pernice following a misconduct probe which cast a shadow on the 2024 series.

The straight-talking BBC One star, who turns 60 in 2025, has addressed the scandal which was sparked after the Italian's former show partner Amanda Abbington, 50, issued a complaint about his behaviour in training.

Craig was appointed a Strictly judge back in 2004, when the show first aired.

He was again in prime position on the panel as fan-favourite comedian Chris McCausland was hailed champion earlier this month.

Yet just months before, Giovanni, 33, quit the BBC show.

His exit came amid an investigation by the BBC over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners - claims he strongly denied.

At the time, Amanda told the Lorraine show she had flagged concerns about the Italian's conduct on the very first week.

A BBC report upheld six allegations against him but cleared him of any serious claims.

The same investigation also saw his fellow Italian professional Graziano Di Prima axed after allegations of "physical incidents" towards show partner Zara McDermott, 27.

Now Craig has spoken out to back Giovanni - who won Italy's version of Strictly this year.

He told : "It says a lot that only six minor complaints out of the 17 were upheld in the BBC’s investigation [into Giovanni’s alleged bullying].

"So, I feel now we can move forward with a fresh approach.

"The good thing to come out of a difficult situation was the introduction of chaperones to Strictly.

"It’s great that now professionals and celebrities have someone to go to for advice and to resolve issues and conflicts before they become a problem.

"Striving for gold is never easy but gold is what competitors want, don’t they?

"At the same time, Strictly’s not the Olympics. It’s a dance show and it’s entertainment. We shouldn’t forget that."

SHOW COMEBACK

Earlier this year, the BBC cleared 34-year-old Sicilian Giovanni of ten out of 16 ­allegations when its probe concluded.

Six claims were upheld, including bullying and harassment.

Bosses then apologised to Amanda.

The report cleared ­Giovanni of violence and physical abuse.

It also said he did not make threats and was not intimidating.

The Sun has now confirmed his TV comeback - on reality show Hunted - will air next year.

A TV source said: “It was absolutely right to shelve Hunted while the BBC took the time to unravel the claims against Giovanni.

"It was filmed in 2022 and due to screen last year, but will now air in early 2025.”

RAW REVEAL

Meanwhile, sharp-tongued judge Craig showed his sensitive side during this year's Strictly final as blind stand-up Chris almost brought him to tears.

During his feedback to the star, who was partnered with pro dancer Dianne Buswell, the notoriously strict judge and choreographer was visibly emotional.

Giving his take on the couple's final dance to You'll Never Walk Alone, Craig revealed he had his "eyes opened" after visiting the studio to see the pair practice.

He said: "My eyes were made wide open when I came to join you in the studio, and I loved every second of it."

He then took things a step further as he read out a Christmas card to the comedian, describing him as a "light that shines for all to see".

He read out his Christmas card, filled with some jokes before later coming out from his seat to come and hug the couple.