Anton Du Beke hugs Giovanni in new announcement as Strictly pro faces misconduct claims

Anton Du Beke looked every inch the supportive pal as he and Giovanni Pernice announced they were back in the studio for tour rehearsals over bank holiday weekend. In a clip shared on the Strictly Theatre Co Instagram, Anton excitedly gushed about his "favourite day" with Giovanni before the pair shared a seemingly much-needed hug.

In the clip, Anton announced: "First day of rehearsals, always my favourite day - second day, less so," while Giovanni stood next to him smiling. "Because we have to remember everything we've done in day one," the professional dancer chimed in.

He excitedly added: "We are back on tour, we are back!" Giovanni then turned to Anton, as he continued: "It feels nice. We are back on tour, we can't wait to see all of you."

Strictly judge Anton went on to inform fans that the pair will be performing across venues nationwide from June 14 until the end of July. He continued: "Very, very exciting, we've got a great show, we've got the most amazing cast, the dancers and singers are remarkable."

"Unbelievable," Giovanni agreed, adding: "The show is called Together," which was followed by the pair sharing a hug. The clip was shared alongside the caption: "TOGETHER Again!!! www.antonandgiovanni.com NOT TO BE MISSED!!"

The announcement shuts down previous reports that their tour could be cancelled following accusations against Giovanni about alleged misconduct, which he strongly denies.

A source told The Mirror: "This has been a really difficult time for Giovanni but the tour with Anton is going ahead.

"There is no reason for it to be cancelled or even postponed. Gio has not been found guilty of anything, though he is the subject of much speculation.

"The Back Together tour will go ahead, and he and Anton will be standing up on stage together as they have done for many tours."

Last week, a spokesman for law firm Carter Ruck told Express.co.uk that the BBC were "gathering evidence" after three of Giovanni's former dance partners put forward complaints.

He said: “There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering. As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage."

Giovanni is said to be "fully cooperating" with the BBC's process and has also hired a lawyer to fight his case.

A spokesman for the dancer told The Sun: “Schillings is engaging with BBC Studios to provide it with Giovanni’s evidence to strongly rebut the claims being made about him and confirm that Giovanni is fully cooperating with that process.

“As with any reality TV show, when decisions are being made for entertainment reasons, the producers have a duty of care to all participants

Speculation about Giovanni's alleged behaviour came following Amanda Abbington's swift departure from Strictly last year.

Just five weeks into dancing with Giovanni, she quit the show citing medical and personal reasons.

Amanda, who is believed to be one of the complainants, later said she had mild Post traumatic stress disorder for several reasons following her experience on the show.

Giovanni has reportedly quit the show after nine years in the wake of the claims, however this is yet to be confirmed by the BBC or the dancer himself.

In a statement issued to his 1.1 million followers, Giovanni strongly denied any wrongdoing and told fans he looked forward to "clearing" his name.

The BBC star continued: "Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

"I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners."

He signed off the post, adding: "Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!"