Giovanni Pernice in talks to join the Italian version of Strictly after he was axed from British series over Amanda Abbington bullying claims

Giovanni Pernice is in advanced talks to take part in the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing, MailOnline can exclusively reveal.

The former Strictly pro, 33, was axed from the British series after being accused of bullying by actress Amanda Abbington, 50, who he worked with last year.

BBC bosses are currently investigating complaints against Giovanni and are sifting through years of footage during rehearsals featuring the dancer, who continues to resist his innocence.

Presenter Laura Whitmore, 39, and Good Morning Britain’s Ranvir Singh, 46, are also said to have reported their assault to the broadcaster after being paired with Giovanni on the show.

MailOnline understands that Giovanni, who ‘rejects any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour’, is now preparing for a new role on Dancing with the Stars in Italy, in a tactical move he hopes will give him the chance to continue with performance.

The former Strictly pro was axed from the British series after being accused of bullying by actress Amanda Abbington, who he worked with last year

BBC bosses are currently investigating complaints against Giovanni and sifting through years of footage during rehearsals featuring the dancer, who continues to resist his innocence (pictured in June)

A source told MailOnline: ‘Giovanni is in advanced talks to take part in the Italian version of Strictly, Dancing with the Stars.

‘Bosses are keen to sign him as a judge given his fame and status in Britain, but are also open to the dancer performing as a professional, if he still wants to compete.

‘It’s a great move for Giovanni, who has considered the possibility of doing shows like I’m A Celeb, but dance will always remain his passion.

‘All he wants is a fresh start and participating in Dancing with the Stars in Italian will certainly give him the new chapter he hopes for.’

Joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars in Italy will be Giovanni’s first big job since his Strictly Axe.

He is currently performing alongside judge Anton Du Beke in their tour show and will perform in Tunbridge Wells on Friday evening.

The live shows end on July 21 and Giovanni’s Dancing with the Stars schedule is expected to begin in August.

Giovanni’s former Strictly co-star Vito Coppola won the Italian version of the show, Ballando con le Stelle, in 2021, before triumphing with Ellie Leach at last year’s British competition.

Joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars in Italy will be Giovanni’s first big job since his Strictly Ax

The dancer joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and remained in the line-up until this year, when bosses axed him amid ongoing speculation about his training methods.

It has been reported that Giovanni’s former Strictly partners Amanda, Laura and Ranvir met to discuss the Italian’s training style and their negative experiences with him as their mentor.

The dancer joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2015 and remained in the line-up until this year, when bosses axed him amid ongoing speculation about his training methods.

Legal firm Carter Ruck confirmed it has contacted the BBC about ‘numerous serious complaints’ about his alleged behavior during the filming of Strictly.

It has been reported that Giovanni’s former Strictly partners Amanda, Laura and Ranvir met to discuss the Italian’s training style and their negative experiences with him as their mentor.

In response to their accusations, Giovanni posted a statement on his Instagram, insisting that the BBC investigation would ultimately clear his name.

He said: ‘As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.

‘I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will establish the truth. As requested, I have remained silent, but I look forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.”

MailOnline has contacted Giovanni’s representative for comment.