Giovanni Pernice to return to UK TV after declaring 'I'm back baby' following end of BBC probe

Axed star is set for a return to UK TV screens after a investigation into it is reported.

The star dancer, who is currently working on Italy’s version of Strictly, is set to appear on show Celebrity Hunted, in which celebrities must go on the run and remain undetected for 28 days while a team of experts try to find and capture them.

Giovanni, 34, had filmed his turn on the show back in 2022 but the tape was shelved after actress Amanda Abbington accused him of bullying, and sparked the BBC probe.

The dancer from Sicily was cleared by the BBC of ten out of 16 ­allegations, while six claims were upheld.

The Sherlock actress had been his dance partner on the show.

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It is reported by the Sun that Channel 4 producers had considered cutting Giovanni’s scenes but it has now been decided the series will air in January.

A source told the publication: “It was absolutely right to shelve Hunted while the BBC took the time to unravel the claims against Giovanni. It was filmed in 2022 and due to screen last year, but will now air in early 2025.”

Meanwhile, Gio and his pal, Strictly judge and veteran Anton Du Beke, last week announced a theatre tour, The Last Dance, running from January into May.

Gio wrote online: “I’m back baby!”

On the Italian version of Strictly, scored five perfect ten marks with his dance partner, making history.

A source added previously: “Gio is pleased he was cleared of the serious allegations and is optimistic about the future.”

Giovanni was cleared of by the BBC investigation, with the final report stating that investigators did not find he had acted in an intimidating manner nor made threats.

What it did find were what it called instances of “inappropriate behaviour of sexual banter in the workplace”- and “belittling, dismissive and insulting” language including swear words.

One of his former Strictly dance partners is set to feature alongside him on Celebrity Hunted. Radio 2 star Richie Anderson was Gio’s 2022 dance partner and it is reported he remained silent during the BBC investigation and rumours of a feud were sparked when he unfollowed the dancer on social media.