Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has publicly shown his condemnation for the decision to axe the latest dance pair from the hit BBC show. Last year's winner Giovanni, who at the time partnered with actor Rose Ayling-Ellis, took to social media to share his thoughts about Ellie Simmonds and Nikita Kuzmin's exit from the competition.
In the previous series Giovanni lifted Strictly's coveted Glitterball trophy alongside celebrity partner Rose after the pair won hearts and the dance floor with a string of stunning routines. As the show returned this year, Giovanni enjoyed the first dance of the new series with EastEnders star Rose before joining the 2022 competition in an all-male partnership alongside Radio 2 and One Show host Richie Anderson.
The top spot in the contest was snatched away from the pair this year as their time in the show came to an end much earlier than expected. Giovanni and Richie were just the second couple to be voted out in the new series, reported Chronicle Live. Giovanni now only appears in group numbers on Strictly, but he has made his opinions known about the latest elimination, which he very public condemned as a 'too early' exit.
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As Ellie and Nikita left the show, Nikita wrote on Instagram: "Our Strictly journey came to an end. Earlier than we wanted, but boy I’ve loved every single moment with you. You’re the most beautiful, pure, sincere, genuine, loving human. I may have taught you dancing but you taught me so much about compassion, sincerity, love and so much about about life. Keep doing incredible things the way you do".
He went on: "This has been without a doubt one of my most special times in my life. You’ve inspired me as a choreographer as well as inspiring me in life. I am beyond grateful for every single second that I got to spent with you. Not sure what I’ll do without you talking to me non stop for a whole day."
The Dance pro then stressed, writing in capitals: "Remember who you are Simmonds! Keep proving everyone wrong the way you love to do it". He added: "I will miss you so much and I love you @elliesimmonds".
Reacting to Nikita's heart-breaking Instagram post about him and Ellie being voted out, Giovanni wrote in the comments section: "Way too early !! You guys were a dream to watch !! Both of you be proud of what you have achieved."
His sentiments were backed up by ex dance partner Rose, who added: "Beautiful. Absolutely love watching you both. You both have shown that boundaries can be pushed, always be so so proud of this!"
Fellow pro dancers added their comments too. Gorka Marquez said: "You guys were a joy to watch!! @nikita__kuzmin I am so proud of you and what you did this series!!! You are a talented man and a true gentleman!" While Katya Jones wrote: "Beautiful words Nikita!!!! You two have pushed boundaries beyond expectations. And yes we all love you @elliesimmonds!"
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