Giovanni Pernice on why he was 'different' with Rose compared to other Strictly partners

Giovanni Pernice admitted he was a “different” partner to his Strictly Come Dancing co-star Rose Ayling-Ellis when they stole the hearts of BBC One viewers in 2021. The duo, who won a BAFTA for their poignant Couple’s Choice routine, won the show and developed a close friendship.

Giovanni, 33, hailed the EastEnders actress as the best pairing he had been given on the show and praised her tenacity.

The Italian dancer told Zoe Ball on her BBC Radio 2 breakfast show in 2021: “I think it's been a fantastic experience, I think it's been the best I have had in the Strictly experience for sure.

"Rose is quite a determined person as well, she really wants to learn how to dance.”

Touching on why his time with Rose had been different to the one he shared with his former partners, Giovanni explained: “We're having fun and I think the reason I think I'm different is because I'm more relaxed."

Their strong friendship was evident throughout the competition and Rose thanked him for being an “incredible teacher and wonderful friend” when they lifted the Glitterball Trophy.

Following their win, Rose gushed in a social media post: "I'm dedicating this post to the most wonderful human ever, Giovanni. The person who was there every day with me for four months, who knows truly what this journey has been for me, the reason why I have become confident within myself.

“He came into my world and brought the best out of me. I cannot thank him enough for all the work and effort to make me become the dancer that I am today. I am beyond proud of us. I never thought I would leave Strictly with a best friend for life, thank you Gi."

The BBC did not announce Giovanni as part of its line-up for the first time since he joined the show in 2015. His exit comes following allegations of abusive or threatening behaviour, which he has strongly rejected.

He was last paired with Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, who withdrew from the competition in week five citing "personal reasons".

In May, Pernice wrote in a statement: "You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week...

"Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.”

He added: "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."

Legal firm Carter-Ruck, which is acting on behalf of complainants, 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."

The BBC has not confirmed whether any probe has begun.