Giovanni Pernice joins forces with Wynne Evans as BBC Strictly stars take on joint work project after show exits
Strictly Come Dancing stars Giovanni Pernice and Wynne Evans have joined forces in a new project.
Wight Proms Festival announced on Wednesday that the dancer and opera singer would be taking part in this year’s event – months after both came under fire for alleged “misconduct” during their respective stints on the dance competition.
The show includes famous faces from opera, dance, musicals, comedy, sport and more.
Wight Prom’s official account shared on Instagram photos of the two, along with other headliners, writing in the caption: “Announcing some of this year’s #WightProms Headliners: @pernice.giovanni @fascinatingaida @wynneevans @leemead_official. Tickets go on sale this Friday 4th April! Book here: www.wightproms.co.uk/buy-tickets-2025.”
The pair both made headlines throughout 2024, with Pernice, 34, investigated by the BBC after his 2023 Strictly partner Amanda Abbington accused him of bullying and misconduct.
The BBC has released the findings of its long-lasting probe last year, announcing the broadcaster would upholding “some but not all” of Abbington’s complaints.
There were no findings relating to physical aggression, but complaints of verbal bullying and harassment were upheld.
It’s been reported that out of 17 allegations, the BBC upheld six, some of which were for Pernice using swear words.
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The report states the language could be “belittling,” with sources saying they found “instances”. Pernice had always denied any wrongdoing throughout the process.
Meanwhile, Evans, 53, took part in last year’s series of the BBC competition alongside partner Katya Jones.
During his stint on the show, he was embroiled in a controversy when he was seen in the background of live footage putting his hand around Jones’s waist, with the dancer, 35, pushing him away.
The clip went viral, and many speculated the dancer felt “uncomfortable” around the GoCompare advert star.
However, the two released a statement assuring fans this wasn’t the case and that the reaction had been a joke.
During the BBC Strictly tour, though, Evans was filmed making an inappropriate remark to dancer and Strictly: It Takes Two host Janette Manrara.
He subsequently pulled out of the tour and took time away from his radio show amid a huge public backlash.
Despite last year’s controversies, the duo seem to have been welcomed by Wight Prom organisers, and comments on the social media post are also positive.
One fan penned: “Yay for Wynne,” with a second adding: “Go on Wynne! #Wynners.”
A third commented: “Brilliant Wynne,” while another shared: “yes @wynneevans you are SO missed xxx.”
On Facebook, another remarked: “Great line up.” However, some questioned Pernice’s involvement, with one simply asking: “Giovanni?” (sic)