Giovanni Pernice declares 'I'm back' as he breaks silence on win and hints at Strictly return

Pro dancer Giovanni thanked fans for their support and referenced a 'difficult year' after a six-month BBC probe into his conduct

Giovanni Pernice has declared he's "back" after a "difficult year" as he broke his sillence after winning the Italian version of Strictly last night.

The pro dancer, 34, and partner Bianca Guaccero, 43, triumphed on Saturday night's finale of Ballando Con Le Stelle following his controversial exit from Strictly after nearly a decade. Giovanni and Bianca, who confirmed that they were dating last month, shared a kiss as they celebrated their win.

Taking to Instagram, Giovanni referenced his year of hell after the BBC launched a probe into claims he bullied 2023 partner Amanda Abbington, which he vehemently denied. He was cleared of nearly all abuse allegations made in September.

Sharing a video of the pair celebrating, he thanked fans for their support and hailed the win as a "dream", while also appearing to hint that a Strictly return was on the cards. He wrote: "We did it !! WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS !! after a difficult year I’m back.

"Thank you to each and every one of you that took the time to support me and Bianca over the last few months - it hasn’t gone un noticed. We have done some incredible dances, and obviously im very proud of what we achieved together!

"To everyone in the UK and Ireland - thank you so much. The constant support I have felt from you all over the last few months has been unbelievable! I see you all, and I’m so grateful to each and every one of you for being there last night and voting when needed - I know it was a lot.

"It felt amazing to be in the final again doing what I love - and then to win as well was a dream and definitely something I will never forget! Thank you for being there and being part of that with me I can’t wait to see you all again very soon! Gio x."

Fans flocked to congratulate Giovanni, with one writing: "Well done Gio!! You were so missed on Strictly UK, great to see you getting the recognition you deserve!" While another commented: "Congratulations. Amazing to see you back with that smile beaming! This is your comeback and your moment. so proud of you! Both of you. Well deserved CHAMPIONS!!"

It comes after an internal BBC investigation cleared Giovanni of almost all abuse allegations made by actress Amanda Abbington in September. After six months of investigating Amanda Abbington's claims bosses ruled Mr Pernice was not physically abusive, however Amanda's complaints about verbal bullying and harassment were upheld.

Out of a total of 16 allegations against Pernice, six were upheld - some of which are for Giovanni using swear words. The report said the dancer's language could be 'belittling' towards his partner.

Despite the controversy, Giovanni returned to the BBC show last night in a special episode marking Strictly's 20th anniversary.

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