A handful of Giovanni Pernice’s former Strictly Come Dancing co-stars have rushed to show their support for the Italian dancer following his latest update on social media.
The 34-year-old was axed from the BBC Saturday night staple earlier this year in rather contentious circumstances as he became the centre of a “misconduct” investigation at the Beeb.
His 2023 dance partner Amanda Abbington was the first to lodge official complaints against Pernice after she accused him of “threatening, bullying and abusive” behaviour in the rehearsal room.
A handful of Pernice’s former celebrity partners similarly came forward with allegations against the professional dancer, including Laura Whitmore who also alleged “inappropriate” behaviour.
The likes of Debbie McGee and Michelle Visage have publicly backed Pernice and he has continued to deny the claims made against him as he vows to “clear my name”.
With the results of the aforementioned investigation still under wraps for now, Pernice hasn’t let it stop him from enjoying life away from the BBC show – including a sun-soaked birthday getaway.
Earlier this week, Pernice shared a series of topless snaps as he soaked up the sun while on-board a boat.
And on Thursday, he celebrated the milestone of turning 34 with a smiley snap on his Instagram page.
He captioned the post: “30+4 today !! Thank you so much to all of you for the messages..I do appreciate your love and your endless support!
“Better days to come and exciting news to share with you very soon… love you all Gio,” he signed off, prompting congratulatory displays from fans – and some familiar faces.
Current Strictly professionals Katya Jones and Carlos Gu both ‘liked’ the post as they showed their support for the axed dancer.
Meanwhile, former contestant and wife to pro dancer Gorka Marquez, Gemma Atkinson, similarly gave the post a ‘like’.
Elsewhere, dozens of fans rushed to wish Pernice well, including one fan who penned: “Happy birthday Giovanni. Have a fantastic day. I will always support you.”
A second weighed in: “Wishing you a very happy birthday Gio ! Have a wonderful day ! Xx.”
And a third added: “Happy Birthday Gio. Have a lovely day celebrating. Those better days are not far away.” (sic)
While Pernice appears to enjoy time away from Strictly, the current crop of pro dancers are gearing themselves up for the show’s return next Saturday.
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However, Pernice’s absence isn’t the only one that will pique interest, as fellow Italian pro Graziano Di Prima was also axed for kicking Zara McDermott.
Meanwhile, Jones hit headlines earlier this week after seemingly revealing the identity of her celebrity partner for this series.
There are nine male celebs and just six females taking part in the 2024 series and the BBC show has reportedly decided there will be no same-sex couples.
Italian dancer Coppola won last year’s competition alongside Coronation Street star Ellie Leach.
