Giovanni Pernice will not return as a professional dancer for the 22nd series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The BBC confirmed the 33-year-old would not appear while announcing its 2024 line-up. The professional dancer previously rejected allegations of “abusive or threatening behaviour” and said he looks “forward to clearing my name”.
Last month, it was reported the BBC had launched an investigation into Pernice following complaints from three former contestants.
A legal firm acting on behalf of the complainants said the broadcaster is “evidence gathering”, but the BBC has not confirmed any investigation has begun.
The Italian professional dancer has been on the BBC One show since 2015 when he reached the grand final with Coronation Street star Georgia May Foote.
Pernice, a previous winner of the Italian Championships dance competition, was last paired with Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, who withdrew from the competition in 2023 citing “personal reasons”.
In 2021, he lifted the Strictly glitterball trophy alongside EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, who was the first deaf contestant to win.
In May, The Sun, reported the broadcaster was “evidence gathering” over allegations about Pernice. It is claimed the three former contestants have instructed lawyers from Carter-Ruck.
The three complainants have not been named, but they are understood to be actress Amanda Abbington and two other high-profile stars, The Sun reports.
A source told the paper: “These are troubled times for the BBC – this is a nightmare situation, frankly. Rumblings have been going on for months about allegations surrounding his behaviour but they steadfastly declined to launch any kind of investigation.
“It was only when three contestants, all allegedly deeply traumatised and upset by some of his training methods and behaviour, complained that any action was taken.”
In May, Pernice wrote that “you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week” and the public has seen him “passionate and competitive” on Strictly.
“No one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me,” he added. “I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be.
“This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners.”
A statement from law firm Carter-Ruck said: “There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering.
“As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage.”