18 February 2023 , 19:06
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It wasn’t quite The Italian Job but Strictly favourites Anton Du Beke and Giovanni Pernice had a brush with the law while filming their new travel series in Sicily.
The pals were driving a flashy black Maserati through the streets of Palermo when cops pulled them over.
Anton, 56, said: “We had a lovely car and Gio said, ‘Don’t drive too fast’ and it was quite a fast car.
"I don’t want to be a spoiler but suffice to say, I got pulled over. They wanted documents and I did not have documents.”
He joked: “I have never been cavity searched in my life but I enjoyed it.”
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Anton and Giovanni are releasing the new series together (WARNING: Use of this copyright image is subject to the terms of use of BBC Pictures' Digital Picture Service (BBC Pictures) as set out at www.bbcpictures.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. In particular, this image may only be published by a registered User of BBC Pictures for editorial use for the purpose of publicising the relevant BBC programme, personnel or activity during the Publicity Period which ends three review weeks following the date of transmission and provided the BBC and the copyright holder in the caption are credited. For any other purpose whatsoever, including advertising and commercial, prior written approval from the copyright holder will be required.)Gio, 32, said: “It was that kind of car that when you drive around Sicily, you get very noticed. [The police] want to know who you are, documents and everything.”
The three-part series will see pro dancer Giovanni introduce his beloved home island to Anton. They became pals when Gio joined Strictly in 2015 and veteran Anton took him under his wing.
Asked if their travel show is the start of a new double act, Anton said: “If they ask, we’ll do it! The show worked as we love each other.”
And in a cheeky pop at Strictly rivals Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli – who filmed ITV ’s Great British Road Trips together – Gio said their programme is better, declaring: “Our show is based on our friendship and is sincere.”
So, where next? Gio said: “Anton wants to take me to Kent, Elstree Studios and a cafe in Borehamwood.”
Anton and Giovanni: Adventures in Sicily is on BBC One next month