Giovanni Pernice has reportedly secured his first British television role since departing Strictly Come Dancing, with the 35-year-old dancer joining the cast of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins on Channel 4.
The professional dancer has quietly travelled to Thailand, where production on the demanding competition series is currently underway.
His appearance will mark a return to UK screens following a four-year absence from British television.
The Channel 4 programme puts famous faces through a rigorous selection process modelled on special forces training, with the course overseen by former military operators.
The pair were crowned champions back in 2021
|Mr Pernice spent nine years as a professional on the BBC ballroom show before his departure in 2024, and has since been working abroad on international dance programmes.
His exit from Strictly followed allegations made by actress Amanda Abbington, who had been his celebrity partner on the programme.
Ms Abbington accused the dancer of being "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean" during their rehearsal sessions, claims which Mr Pernice has consistently denied.
A subsequent BBC investigation upheld some of her complaints relating to bullying and harassment, prompting the corporation to issue an apology to the actress.
The former Strictly star has reportedly signed up for the gruellig Channel 4 series
|INSTAGRAM/CHANNEL 4
However, the inquiry did not uphold allegations of physical aggression or threatening behaviour against the dancer.
At the time, Mr Pernice said he was "pleased the report has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour" and following the investigation's conclusion and the surrounding controversy, he did not return to the BBC programme.
Those behind the Channel 4 series are said to be delighted with the casting. A source stated: "Producers are absolutely thrilled by the signing of Gio.
"He is a real housewives' favourite and has an absolutely huge fan base, especially among women, so bosses are hopeful he may draw in a few Strictly fans."
Amanda Abbington claimed Mr Pernice was "abusive" during their time dancing together
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The insider added that his background in professional dance has left him "incredibly fit and mentally resilient," qualities that should serve him well during the show's punishing physical challenges.
Mr Pernice himself is reportedly eager to get back in front of British audiences. The source continued: "He is excited to get back to doing what he does best – entertaining and giving himself a real challenge. He is thrilled to be back on screens after a painfully long break.
"Pernice has previously acknowledged that a return to Strictly appears unlikely. "I would love to go back on Strictly but I don't think they're going to have me on again," he said.
"It wasn't the most pleasant situation for me. I'm very happy that it's finished and everybody can move on with their lives."
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The pair pulled out of the series before the claims unfolded
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Following his departure from the BBC show, he relocated to Italy to appear on Ballando con le Stelle, the country's equivalent of Strictly.
Reflecting on that period, he noted: "You know who your real friends are when you're at your lowest – and that's what I missed throughout the whole period."
During his time in Italy, the dancer began a relationship with actress Bianca Guaccero, 45, and the pair went on to win the competition together.
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