Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special

Giovanni Pernice might return to Strictly this Christmas (Image: Getty) Giovanni Pernice reveals he'll be joining Ballando con le Stelle

Giovanni Pernice could make a comeback for Strictly Come Dancing's highly anticipated 20th anniversary special, despite recent controversy over his behaviour towards former celebrity partner Amanda Abbington.

The dancer, who stepped away from the show earlier this year, is likely to feature in the celebratory episode, which will showcase memorable performances from past seasons.

The one-off special is set to air on BBC1 and promises to feature "iconic performances and familiar faces both past and present".

Giovanni, 34, made Strictly history in 2021 when he won the coveted Glitterball Trophy with Rose Ayling-Ellis.

She was the first deaf contestant to win the competition and their groundbreaking dance is expected to be shown as part of the special.

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A clip of Giovanni Pernice and Rose Ayling-Ellis will likely be played during the special (Image: Getty)

A source told The Sun: "Giovanni made history when he won with Rose, so footage from their emotional silent performance is set to feature."

Fans are even speculating that Pernice might make an in-person appearance for the show. The BBC has yet to confirm or deny his involvement.

A BBC spokesman said: "Editorial decisions about what the final show will include haven’t been finalised yet."

Giovanni's possible return comes just months after a BBC investigation into allegations made by Abbington, who competed with him in last year’s Strictly.

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Amanda left the competition in week six, citing medical reasons, but later accused Pernice of using "belittling" language during their training sessions.

The BBC’s five-month probe upheld six of the 16 complaints against him but cleared him of the remaining 10.

Once the findings came out, Giovanni quit the show in May after nine years as a professional dancer on Strictly.

The BBC has since issued an apology to Amanda for her experience during the competition.

Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special

Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special

Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special

Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special

Giovanni Pernice 'set for Strictly return' with 20th anniversary special