Giovanni Pernice quits the UK as star's Strictly Come Dancing 'exit' is revealed
Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice left the UK ahead of claims he is quitting the hugely popular BBC show after nine years.
The star, 33, is on a break in Dubai with his girlfriend Molly Brown, 25, who shared pictures of them kissing where she dubbed him "my best friend".
The couple, who confirmed their romance at the end of February, proved they were still going strong despite rumours that they had split.
Strictly Come Dancing fans were shocked by the news - revealed by The Sun last night - that Giovanni is reportedly set to 'quit' the hit BBC show after nine years.
It comes after his 2023 celebrity dance partner, Mr Selfridge and Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, said that she had been diagnosed with PTSD following her stint on the show.
A source quoted by The Sun said: "Gio feels the scrutiny on him has become too much, and now is the time to make a fresh start.
"He wants to focus on other TV projects, and feels he’s achieved all he can on Strictly, having won the trophy back in 2021 and reaching the final an unprecedented four times."
In a statement to OK!, the BBC insisted that viewers should stand by for official announcements on the cast. It said: "The professional dancers for 2024 will be announced in due course."
