GIOVANNI Pernice has said “I’m back” as he won the Italian version of Strictly on Saturday night alongside partner Bianca Guaccero.

After raising the trophy on Ballando con le Stelle with actress Bianca, 43, the 34-year-old took to social media to thank fans.

Giovanni Pernice has said “I’m back” as he won the Italian version of Strictly on Saturday night alongside partner Bianca Guaccero Credit: Splash

The star planted a kiss on his girlfriend’s lips as they won the show Credit: Splash

Giovanni was asked about plans to propose Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DD3ILrpo-rn/
Giovanni penned: “We did it !! WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS !! after a difficult year I’m back.”

The star also vowed to marry Bianca, while being quizzed about popping the question.

The Italian dancer responded: “If we win the show, I’ll seriously think about it.”

Sicilian Gio last month confirmed his romance with dance partner Bianca Guaccero on Italy’s version of the BBC show.

Bianca and Giovanni were interviewed on an Italian show called La Volta Buona.

And Bianca said “Sometimes in life you meet people who damage your self esteem and you have to recover it bit by bit with time.

Giovanni quit Strictly this year amid the investigation into his bullying behaviour towards Amanda Abbington.

He went on to thank his UK and Ireland fans in his lengthy social media post after winning the Italian version, writing: “Thank you to each and every one of you that took the time to support me and Bianca over the last few months – it hasn’t gone un noticed.

“We have done some incredible dances, and obviously im very proud of what we achieved together!”
Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on his future at the BBC after Amanda Abbington bullying row
He continued: “To everyone in the UK and Ireland – thank you so much. The constant support I have felt from you all over the last few months has been unbelievable!

“I see you all, and I’m so grateful to each and every one of you for being there last night and voting when needed – I know it was a lot.

“It felt amazing to be in the final again doing what I love – and then to win as well was a dream and definitely something I will never forget! Thank you for being there and being part of that with me

“I can’t wait to see you all again very soon!”

It comes after Giovanni quit in May after nine years on Strictly as he faced allegations over his training methods with previous celebrity partners — including 50-year-old actress Amanda.

Timeline of Giovanni Pernice’s dating history

Giovanni is loved up with Molly Brown now, but has dated many high profile beauties:

Giovanni Pernice split from fellow pro dancer Jowita Przystal in March 2023.

Pals revealed how the pair chose to end their relationship after falling for one another during the 2022 series of the Strictly.

Giovanni secretly dated Love Island star Maura Higgins for weeks before going public in July 2021.

But the pair called time on their romance four months later.

Giovanni also enjoyed a romance with Pussycat Dolls star Ashley Roberts.

They met after she took part in Strictly back in 2018.

Giovanni met Jessica Wright through her brother Mark Wright when he was on Strictly in 2017.

But after posting a series of loved up snaps on social media, they parted ways six months later.

Giovanni started dating Georgia May Foote in 2015 after they were paired together on Strictly Come Dancing.

But they split wight months later.

She departed last year’s show in week six, citing medical reasons, but later accused Giovanni of bullying.

The BBC’s five-month investigation, which was published in September, cleared Giovanni of ten of the 16 allegations made against him.

But it found instances of him using “belittling” language towards her, and the Beeb apologised to Amanda.

Strictly winner Rose Ayling-Ellis did not appear in last night’s 20th anniversary BBC special — despite her victory with Giovanni Pernice.

The EastEnders actress, 30, made history as the first deaf contestant and went on to win the Glitterball trophy with Giovanni, 34, in 2021.

But while her dances were fondly remembered on Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Fabulous Years, Rose was absent.

A source said: “Rose loved her time on the show, but didn’t want to discuss her time with Giovanni.

“She’s chosen not to speak about him and Amanda publicly.”

Bianca Guaccero and Giovanni with their trophy Credit: Splash

Giovanni quit in May after nine years on Strictly Credit: PA