Strictly's Giovanni Pernice reveals injury blow ahead of new series

Virgin Radio

28 Jul 2023, 10:21

Credit: BBC / Instagram @giovannipernice

With the new series of Strictly Come Dancing approaching, Giovanni Pernice has picked up an injury.

The professional dancer is currently on tour with Anton Du Beke, and has taken to social media to inform fans that he has done his ankle some damage.

In a video posted on Instagram, he said: "As you probably know I’m on tour at the moment with Anton, and doing one of the dances I did twist my ankle on stage.

"I have just been to the doctor, to the physio, and he advised me to rest for a few weeks, which means I’m not going to be able to dance at the weekend.”

Reassuring attendees that he will remain part of the live show, he said: “I will still be there to entertain you with my other half Anton Du Beke. We will be singing along but unfortunately Anton will do the dancing bit."

However, he did reveal: "This also means that I am going to miss a few of the Strictly professional group numbers, but I just need to give some rest to my ankle and come back stronger than ever for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing - which I’m really looking forward to.”

Rose Ayling-Ellis, who won Strictly with Pernice in 2021 wrote: “Get well soon.”

One follower added: "Get well soon Gio, hope your ankle heals quickly ❤️🤞."

Another said: "Rest up Gio your health comes before anything and I’m sure I speak for millions when I say we can’t wait to see you back on Strictly 💕"

Whilst the new series of Strictly Come Dancing doesn’t have a confirmed start date yet, the hit BBC show is set to be back some time in the autumn. The line-up hasn’t been announced at this stage, but there is plenty of speculation regarding who might take to the dance floor, including potentially the oldest ever celeb to take part.

Ahead of the new series, Amy Dowden gave her pro family a welcome surprise at the start of their rehearsals by popping by to say hello, even though the dancer is unable to take part in the upcoming series due to her ongoing cancer treatment.