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Giovanni Pernice to Star on Strictly Come Dancing Anniversary Despite Amanda Abbington Objection
In a dramatic turn of events leading up to the 20th anniversary of Strictly Come Dancing, one of its most popular and talented professional dancers, Giovanni Pernice, will take center stage in the special anniversary show. However, the announcement has been met with some controversy, particularly from his former partner, Amanda Abbington, who has voiced her objection to the pairing. Despite the tension, Pernice’s star power and history with the show’s audience ensure that his involvement in the anniversary programme is set to be a major highlight.
This unusual situation has created a swirl of media attention and sparked debates about the personal dynamics between Strictly dancers and their celebrity partners. As the BBC prepares to celebrate two decades of the show’s success with a special broadcast, all eyes are on the unfolding drama between Pernice and Abbington.
Giovanni Pernice: The Italian Stallion of Strictly Come Dancing
Giovanni Pernice has long been one of the most successful and beloved professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing. Known for his charismatic personality, impeccable technique, and fiery Italian passion, Pernice has become a staple of the show since he joined in 2015. Over the years, he has wowed audiences with his dazzling choreography, charming demeanor, and ability to elevate his celebrity partners into the limelight.
Pernice has proven his versatility as a dancer, having won the show in 2021 with his partner Rose Ayling-Ellis, who made history as the first deaf contestant to win the glitterball trophy. Their victory was a landmark moment in Strictly’s history, with Pernice’s sensitivity and skill in choreographing routines that celebrated Ayling-Ellis’s unique abilities making them an unstoppable pair.
Known for his cheeky yet professional approach to his work, Pernice has been one of the key figures on the show, not just for his dance skills but for his ability to forge strong bonds with his celebrity partners. He has become a fan favorite, consistently delivering standout performances season after season.
Amanda Abbington: The Actress Who Stole Hearts
Amanda Abbington, a highly respected British actress known for her roles in popular television dramas such as Sherlock, Mr. Selfridge, and The Widow, joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. Abbington, who brought her impressive stage presence and natural grace to the dance floor, was expected to be a formidable contestant. However, her time on the show was marked by some challenges, particularly with her professional dance partner, Giovanni Pernice.
While Abbington impressed the judges with her ability to pick up choreography, her partnership with Pernice, particularly early in the series, was characterized by a visible tension. Some viewers speculated that the dynamic between the two was somewhat strained, and despite their occasional moments of brilliance on the dance floor, they struggled to find a rhythm both on and off the floor.
Abbington has been vocal about the difficulties she faced throughout her Strictly journey, particularly the pressures of the competition and the demands of training. In interviews, she admitted that she found the experience emotionally taxing, and her relationship with Pernice appeared to reflect some of those challenges. The pair, however, continued to work hard, and despite some tough moments, they reached the semi-finals, showing that they could overcome personal hurdles to achieve success.
The Controversy: Abbington’s Objection
The announcement that Giovanni Pernice would return for the 20th anniversary special of Strictly Come Dancing has stirred controversy due to Amanda Abbington’s objection to working with him again. Sources close to the actress have revealed that Abbington has expressed her discomfort about Pernice’s involvement in the special, particularly because of the emotional strain their partnership caused during the 2023 series. It is understood that Abbington felt that the experience was more challenging than expected and that working alongside Pernice for an extended period had created personal tensions.
Reports suggest that Abbington was caught off-guard by the announcement, especially considering the public nature of their partnership and the difficult moments they shared throughout their time on the show. While there has been no official statement from Abbington directly addressing the anniversary special, rumors have circulated that she feels uncomfortable with Pernice’s prominent involvement in the celebration, given the unresolved dynamics of their previous collaboration.
In the entertainment industry, personal relationships—particularly those formed under the intense spotlight of reality television—can be difficult to navigate. Strictly Come Dancing, with its high-pressure environment and emotionally charged atmosphere, is no exception. The close proximity that professional dancers and celebrities maintain during training and rehearsals often leads to heightened emotions, both positive and negative, making it harder for relationships to remain purely professional.
The Response from Pernice and the BBC
Giovanni Pernice has yet to respond directly to Abbington’s objections. However, sources close to the professional dancer have stressed that he remains focused on the anniversary show and its importance for the Strictly legacy. Pernice, known for his professionalism, is expected to continue with his participation in the anniversary celebrations, where he will likely perform alongside other former champions and fan-favorite dancers.
The BBC has confirmed that Pernice will be performing in a group number during the anniversary programme, where past and present professional dancers will showcase their talent in a series of high-energy routines. Despite the tension surrounding his relationship with Abbington, it appears that Pernice will be featured prominently in the special, which will undoubtedly focus on the history and evolution of the show over the past two decades.
In response to the controversy, the BBC has issued a statement expressing its hope that the anniversary special will be a celebration of all those who have contributed to the success of Strictly Come Dancing. The broadcaster emphasized that the show has always maintained an inclusive and respectful environment for its participants and that the anniversary programme will aim to reflect the positive impact the show has had on dance and entertainment.
“We are incredibly proud of Strictly Come Dancing and all that it has achieved over the past 20 years. It is important to us that all of our contestants and professionals feel valued and supported. The anniversary show is a celebration of everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey,” a BBC spokesperson said.
What the Anniversary Show Means for Strictly and Its Future
The 20th-anniversary special of Strictly Come Dancing is a momentous occasion for the BBC, marking two decades of success for one of the UK’s most beloved entertainment programmes. The special will highlight the incredible transformations, emotional journeys, and world-class performances that have defined the show since its inception. It will also reflect on the show’s influence on popular culture and its ability to unite viewers across the nation.
For Giovanni Pernice, this anniversary show marks another milestone in his long and successful career with Strictly. Despite the tension surrounding his relationship with Amanda Abbington, Pernice’s talent, dedication, and fan following ensure that he remains a central figure in the Strictly universe. His participation in the special will be a fitting tribute to his contributions to the programme and his ability to bring out the best in his celebrity partners.
As for Amanda Abbington, her objections may highlight the complex and sometimes difficult nature of working under the glare of public scrutiny. While her discomfort is understandable, it is unlikely to overshadow the broader celebration of Strictly’s 20-year legacy. The anniversary special promises to be a dazzling celebration of dance, talent, and memories, uniting past and present stars of the show in a spectacular showcase of everything Strictly Come Dancing stands for.
Despite personal challenges, the enduring magic of Strictly remains intact, and the anniversary special will surely be a fitting tribute to the millions of viewers who have supported the show over the years. As the dancers, celebrities, and fans reflect on the journey of Strictly Come Dancing, it’s clear that the show’s ability to evolve and embrace new talent will ensure its continued success for many more years to come.
