Reports are swirling tonight that Strictly Come Dancing favourite Giovanni Pernice has quit the flagship BBC show. Unconfirmed reports state the Italian champion dancer has decided to leave the show despite discussions ongoing for a further series.
The Mirror reports that the BBC was "very keen" to extend their relationship with the 33-year-old, who has been subject to claims about his rigorous training techniques from past celebrity partners, including Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington.
Intriguingly, an internal memo naming this year's professional dancers for the show has been distributed without including Giovanni.
It has now been reported that he is pursuing a fresh beginning on other TV shows. This evening, in response to these reports, the BBC has issued a statement about Giovanni's future.
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