Giovanni Pernice has revealed plans to publish a memoir that will address his controversial exit from Strictly Come Dancing.
The 35-year-old Italian dancer announced the book, titled “Gio My Story,” which is scheduled for release on August 27 this year.
In a promotional video shared on Instagram, Mr Pernice promised readers previously unknown details about his life and career.
“My book is a memoir, it’s a story of my life since when I was a child, to Strictly and beyond, of course,” he said.
Giovanni Pernice shared the news on his social media
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“So we’re going to discuss things that you probably don’t know about – information that you want to know.”
The former Strictly professional, who lifted the glitterball trophy with Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021, described the publication as his opportunity to share his journey from Sicily to the BBC ballroom.
Mr Pernice was dropped from the 2024 series following allegations made by actress Amanda Abbington regarding his behaviour during their time as dance partners.
The Sherlock star accused the professional dancer of being “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” in rehearsals when they were paired together. Mr Pernice has consistently and strongly rejected these claims.
Amanda Abbington broke down in tears when discussing her Strictly ordeal with Channel 4 last year
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CHANNEL 4Once considered among the most popular professionals on the Saturday night programme, the Sicilian dancer’s departure marked a dramatic fall from grace.
His exit came after Ms Abbington withdrew from the competition, subsequently raising concerns about her treatment in the training room.
The controversy prompted a formal BBC investigation into the allegations, which examined the conduct complaints brought forward by the 52-year-old actress.
The BBC inquiry concluded by upholding some of Ms Abbington’s complaints against Mr Pernice, while dismissing the most serious accusations.
Giovanni Pernice is releasing a tell-all book
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PAInvestigators found evidence supporting claims of verbal bullying and harassment, though allegations of physical aggression were not substantiated.
Following the investigation’s conclusion, the corporation issued an apology to Ms Abbington.
The BBC acknowledged that while production staff had attempted to address concerns during filming, these efforts proved insufficient.
In response to the findings, the broadcaster has since introduced enhanced duty of care protocols designed to better safeguard celebrity participants on the programme.
Mr Pernice was cleared of claims that he had been threatening or abusive towards his dance partner, with the review rejecting what he described as the majority of allegations made against him.
Mr Pernice expressed relief at the investigation’s outcome in a statement, saying: “I’m glad the review has finally come to an end. I’m relieved that the allegations that I was threatening and abusive were found not to be true.”
He acknowledged the toll the process had taken, noting he had been unable to respond publicly while respecting the integrity of the BBC’s review.
The dancer thanked his family, friends, colleagues and fans for their support throughout what he called “an extremely difficult year.”
Ms Abbington has maintained her position on the matter. Speaking on the White Wine Question Time podcast last May, she said: “I just didn’t like how I was treated, that was all it was. It was never a witch hunt, I never wanted to tear anybody down.”
The actress expressed hope that speaking out would prevent similar experiences for others, including her own daughter.