Strictly's Giovanni Pernice could 'become judge' after Amanda Abbington's exit
Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice could return to the dancefloor as a judge on the BBC series following the dramatic exit by his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington.
Former professional dancer winner Joanne Clifton, who scooped first place during the Christmas Special in 2015 alongside Harry Judd, reckons Giovanni will take up the new role after Amanda quit the show for "personal reasons". After being embroiled in ongoing feud rumours, Amanda's departure could mean Giovanni would "follow in the footsteps" of star judge Anton Du Beke, who was a pro himself.
The prediction from Joanne comes as Strictly insiders say it was "no surprise" Amanda walked away from the series, after reportedly becoming "frazzled" thanks to Giovanni's tough training sessions. It's also claimed the Italian dancer has no intentions of quitting Strictly despite a disappointing season.
Giovanni could be taking up a new role on Strictly (PA)
Joanne reckons he'll follow in the footsteps of Anton (WireImage)"Many of us would like to have a go at judging," explained Joanne. "I completely get why Anton wanted to. I can see Giovanni Pernice going for it in a couple of years' time," she told Betway Slots. "He could definitely be a type of Bruno Tonioli on the panel as him and Anton have their show together. He has a great personality."
Revelations come after Strictly viewers are convinced that BBC bosses should make one crafty decision to bring back show-quitting star Amanda. The Sherlock actress left the dancefloor for good this week and is embroiled in feud rumours with Giovanni, with many claiming the pair had a "frosty" working relationship.
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Fans are now calling on a Strictly legend to comeback, with Amanda in tow. Neil Jones is a fan-favourite to bring back to the dancefloor, with some urging him to "step in" so mum-of-two Amanda can return without facing the reported 'awkward feud' with her original dance partner Giovanni. "It's a personality clash," one wrote on X, formally Twitter.
"Not everyone gets on, not matter how lovely they are." Neil was actually amongst those sending well-wishes to Amanda when she announced her departure, snubbing any mention of Giovanni. "We love you and will miss you, you are so talented and a beautiful soul," Neil penned.
Neil has only ever been partnered with two celebrities and fans were upset when he didn't get one this year, despite joining the show seven years ago. He's been sat on the sidelines this series, helping out ex-wife Katya, who's partnered with Nigel Harman.
Amanda quit Strictly earlier this week for 'personal reasons' (PA)Amanda brutally snubbed Giovanni as she said her goodbyes to Strictly Come Dancing. The mum-of-two explained her decision "didn't come easily" and that she was departing the popular dancing programme for "personal reasons". She released a full statement on Tuesday.
Amanda said she had 'deep regret' and went on to thank her co-stars, without mentioning her mentor Giovanni once. The star took time to thank the contestants and the production team but shared no message for her dance partner. The move comes amid rumours the pair have had a fallout behind the scenes. In the first week of the show it was even reported that Amanda would not perform after being unimpressed with Giovanni's 'aggressive' training style.
Pouring fuel on to the flames, the Sherlock actress, 49, wrote in her goodbye post: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue." Amanda added: "It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside.
"I want to thank the incredible Production team and everyone on Strictly who looked after me and who are so kind and caring. It’s a wonderful bunch of people and I’ll miss all of them. I'm so sad that I am unable to go any further. Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you."
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