CONFIRMED: Anton Du Beke Finally Speaks Out on His Friendship with Giovanni Pernice—And Fans Are Disappointed.
Anton Du Beke Addresses Giovanni Pernice’s Strictly Controversy
Anton Du Beke appeared slightly uneasy when asked about Giovanni Pernice and his possible return to Strictly Come Dancing.
The professional dancer joined Good Morning Britain on Monday, February 24, to discuss his latest venture—one that takes him far from the ballroom and into the world of golf.
Anton, 58, has launched a new podcast, Putt And Strut, alongside Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk. The show will feature celebrity guests such as tennis coach Judy Murray and actor James Nesbitt, aiming to encourage more women to take up golf.
However, during the interview, Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid steered the conversation toward Giovanni Pernice, who was absent from Strictly last season due to an internal investigation into his conduct.
Although Giovanni was cleared of the most serious allegations, the BBC upheld some complaints made by actress Amanda Abbington regarding his behavior during the 2023 series.
Since leaving Strictly, Giovanni has continued his career in Italy, where he recently won the country’s version of Dancing with the Stars—Ballando Con Le Stelle—with his celebrity partner and real-life girlfriend, Bianca Guaccero.
Read More:
- Two birds with one stone Ellen DeGeneres not only made her wife happy but also successfully threw shade at the person who forced them both to “leave” the United States, all with a single action on her social media.
- Jimmy Fallon made his fans “hide their faces” with his “dishonest” behavior during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Angelina Jolie has proven that she has found her “peaceful harbor” in Akala, subtly hinting that she plans to “retire” from her career and return to being a woman focused on family.
Anton Tries to Sidestep Giovanni’s Strictly Future
During the interview, Richard confronted Anton with a direct question:
“Reports suggest you support Giovanni Pernice’s return to Strictly, despite the BBC upholding six complaints against him. That’s a strong position—why do you feel that way?”
Anton, taken aback, let out a nervous laugh before responding:
“That’s a great question. Honestly, I’d much rather be talking about golf.”
Attempting to shift the topic, he quickly added:
“I was really happy for Giovanni this autumn—he went back to Italy, competed in Strictly there, and won with Bianca. He was thrilled about it.”
Anton also confirmed that he and Giovanni will soon be working together again, saying:
“We’re heading out on tour this summer, so I’ll be seeing him then. Performing with him is always fantastic, and we’ve been friends for a long time. We have an amazing team, so it’s going to be a wonderful show.”
Read More:
- Taylor Swift couldn’t hide her excitement as she subtly hinted at the “wedding” day between her and Travis Kelce after a family meeting during Thanksgiving.
- VIDEO: Jennifer Lopez left fans worried with her “worn-out” appearance when she made her first public outing with her daughter Emme, following the moment she witnessed Ben Affleck’s “kiss” with another woman.
- Spring has arrived for “Captain Jack Sparrow” Johnny Depp as he unexpectedly went public with his latest young lover.
Giovanni Speaks Out on His Strictly Future
Despite the controversy, Giovanni has expressed a strong desire to return to Strictly, though he doubts it will happen.
In an interview with the Mail on Sunday, he admitted:
“I would love to go back to Strictly—that show changed my life. But I don’t think the producers want me back. I think they’ve moved on.”
He continued:
“It’s disappointing. I’ve had an incredible ten years on Strictly and achieved everything I wanted. But it’s not my decision to make. Maybe I’ll come back one day, like Aljaž did. For now, I’m focused on what comes next. And let’s not forget—I’m the reigning Italian champion.”
📢 Do you think Giovanni Pernice should return to Strictly Come Dancing? Let us know in the comments!
