Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice left the BBC show earlier this year amid an investigation into his alleged behaviour towards Amanda Abbington.

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice has admitted that he “would love” to return to the BBC show after stepping away from his role last year.

However, he claims that he is “upset” as he thinks that producers will not allow his return and the decision is “out of his hands”.

In a candid admission, the 34-year-old Italian dancer told the Mail on Sunday: “I would love to go back to Strictly because Strictly changed my life. It is a massive show, but I don’t think they’re going to have me back. They’re not.”

He added: “I’m upset as well. It’s been a great, great, great ten years. I achieved everything. But it’s not my choice, it’s not my decision.”

Giovanni was suspended from the show after his 2023 partner Amanda Abbington made a complaint about his conduct – which was partially upheld following an investigation.

Giovanni Pernice would ‘love’ to return to Strictly (Image: ITV)

Six out of the 17 allegations against Giovanni were upheld, but not the “more serious” ones such as physical violence and threatening and intimidating behaviour.

Gio was suspended while the investigation took place and eventually left the show completely to join the Italian version Ballando con le Stelle.

The dancer went on to be hailed the winner of the Italian series and also found love with his celebrity partner, Italian star Bianca Guaccero.

Recently, he has also been reunited with Strictly co-star Lauren Oakley. The pair will be teaching dance classes together in an intimate countryside setting at two locations close to major UK cities.

Strictly’s Lauren Oakley’s two word reply to Giovanni Pernice as they reunite [REACTION]
Giovanni Pernice reunites with Strictly star as fans call them the ‘dream team’ [UPDATE]
Giovanni Pernice’s emotional 7-word statement after BBC row sparked year of hell [LATEST]

Gio gave his thoughts on returning to the BBC (Image: Getty)

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

The project is separate from Giovanni’s dance school, Ballando, and will see would-be dance aces sign up for weekends in five-star hotels, where they’ll be taught on-site by multiple Strictly favourites.

Giovanni and Lauren will appear alongside Anton du Beke, Aljaz Skorjanec and Janette Manrara, along with other dance stars, at the De Vere Beaumont Estate Hotel in Windsor, Berkshire, on March 28.

Then in April, the pair will be joined by Anton, along with Katya Jones, Kai Widdrington and Nadiya Bychkova at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel in Newport, Wales.