Strictly Come Dancing 'in talks' with US star to replace Giovanni Pernice

bosses are reportedly in talks to secure a US star to join the show to replace . The Italian dancer stepped back from the show's 2024 series following claims from his 2023 partner, , concerning issues with his conduct.

Amanda, known for her role in , had claimed Giovanni created a "toxic environment" and levelled "inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying" charges at him. The dancer has brushed off any hints of abusive or menacing behaviour and embraced the results of a investigation that upheld "some, but not all" complaints made by the actress.

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It was admitted that there weren't any aspects of physical aggression involved, but allegations regarding verbal bullying and harassment seem to have been acknowledged.

Following the conclusion of the investigation, questions were raised on whether Giovanni could return to the show but the Italian dancer said he didn't

And now, as the BBC have been revealed the line-up for the upcoming series of the dance competition, it has been said Dancing With The Stars winner Pasquale La Rocca could be joining the series.

The insider said the dancer "would be a perfect it" as they told : "He’s had meetings with bosses and is being lined up as the next Giovanni Pernice.

“A final decision is yet to be made but it won’t be long following the news of the returning cast - and Pasquale ticks all the right boxes.” The have reached out to the BBC for comment.

Speaking about Strictly’s return, Sarah James, executive producer of Studios recently said: “The excitement is already building ahead of the new series and in addition to welcoming back our fantastic returning pros.

“We are looking forward to welcoming two brand new professional dancers to the line-up who will help bring another unforgettable series of dazzling dance and loads more besides to viewers later in 2025.”

Others returning to the next series include Amy Dowden, winner Dianne Buswell, who was partnered up with blind comedian Chris McCausland, Katya Jones and Aljaz Skorjanec.

Also returning to the professional cast for the upcoming series will be Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Neil Jones, , Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Kai Widdrington, and Nancy Xu.

Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola will also be making a comeback to the show.

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