‘Numerous serious complaints’: Strictly axes Giovanni Pernice after biggest scandal in show’s history

Pernice has been at the centre of a crisis about his alleged ‘threatening and abusive behaviour’, after a backlash from his former dance partners on the hit show

Arrivederci, then, Giovanni Pernice. The BBC have at last confirmed that the Strictly Come Dancing star won’t be part of the professional lineup for this year’s series.

It brings to an end a tumultuous period for the BBC’s ballroom blockbuster – all the more embarrassing because it’s not even been on air. The furore risked spilling into autumn’s landmark contest, which celebrates two decades of dance. Ultimately, the corporation had little choice but to part ways.