Giovanni Pernice has defiantly declared he’s “not going anywhere” in an impassioned statement after completing his final UK tour performance at the London Palladium.
The former Strictly Come Dancing professional shared an emotional Instagram post following his Last Dance tour finale, which was promptly flooded with support from his fans and some former BBC castmates.
“After I took that final bow at The London Palladium, I was reminded of a song; Rise like a Phoenix, because that’s how I felt. This tour meant a lot,” Pernice wrote, referring to the Amanda Abbington bullying investigation that plagued his 2024.
The 34-year-old dancer left the BBC show following complaints from his 2023 celebrity partner Abbington, who’d accused him of “threatening and abusive” conduct during their time together on the show.
“As I took that final bow, I felt love from those who matter, I felt pride, I felt satisfaction, and now I look forward to what’s to come,” he stated.
In his candid post, Pernice took aim at those who distanced themselves during his controversy. “To those who turned their back and walked away because it wasn’t good to be seen with me. I see you watching what I’m doing,” he wrote.
The dancer added: “Please keep watching – because this tour may be called The Last Dance, but rest assured it’s not the last from me.”
Pernice emphasised this point during his performances, telling audiences: “The Last Dance, doesn’t mean the last dance… I’m still standing.”
The Italian dancer revealed his “world collapsed” amid the accusations that led to his Strictly exit. The BBC investigation into Abbington’s complaints concluded in September 2024, partially upholding her allegations against Pernice.
Six of her 17 complaints related to verbal bullying and harassment were upheld by the broadcaster, but the more serious allegations of physical aggression and threatening behaviour were dismissed.
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Abbington called the findings a “vindication of [my] complaint”, while Pernice said he was “happy” the more serious allegations had been rejected. The report primarily focused on the former pro’s swearing during training sessions.
Following the investigation, the BBC issued a formal apology to Abbington and thanked her for coming forward with her grievances.
Pernice’s defiant statement comes just days after Abbington doubled down on her criticisms during a podcast appearance, reiterating her claims that she “wasn’t being treated fairly” during her time on the show.
The Sherlock actress revealed she faced severe public backlash after making her complaints. “I was getting 20 death threats a day,” she disclosed, highlighting the intense reaction to her speaking out.
Abbington maintained her intentions were never malicious. “There was never a witch hunt, I never wanted to tear anybody down,” she said.
She explained her motivation was partly to protect others. “I knew that several other women before me hadn’t been treated fairly in that room, and I didn’t want that to happen to somebody like my daughter.”
Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has continued to show unwavering support for Pernice throughout the controversy.
She attended his sold-out London Palladium performance and shared photos of their backstage reunion on social media. “Amazing and beyond the stars… Gio set the night on fire last night,” Ballas wrote.
She praised his performance, adding: “You entertain, you inspire and you bring the house down.”
The head judge concluded her supportive message with: “Congratulations and well done my friend @giovannipernice I’m beyond proud of you x.” (sic)
Pernice’s Instagram statement also received a supportive response from current Strictly pro, Lauren Oakley.
Since leaving Strictly, Pernice’s career has flourished in new directions. He recently won the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, titled Ballando con le Stelle, alongside his professional and real-life partner Bianca Guaccero.
The dancer has also appeared on Celebrity Hunted, expanding his television portfolio beyond dance competitions. Pernice is now planning a summer tour with Strictly legend Anton Du Beke, titled Together Again.
In his Instagram post, he referenced this upcoming project, telling fans: “I’ll see you soon for Together Again with my best friend.”