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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Katie Fitzpatrick

Strictly Come Dancing favourite Giovanni hits back at 'secret' reality TV dating rumours

Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has spoken out over rumours he is 'secretly dating' a reality TV star.

The 31-year-old is favourite to win this year's competition with Rose Ayling-Ellis - and he's made clear he's far too busy for romance.

There had been reports he is 'secretly dating' Made in Chelsea's Verity Bowditch.

But Italian dancer, who split last month from former Love Island star Maura Higgins, says 'it's all about dance, dance, dance' in an upbeat message to his fans.

He revealed the news in a post on his Instagram Stories.

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"Happy Sunday beautful people. Always wanting to speak the truth over here," he said.

Giovanni says it's all about 'dance, dance. dance' (PA)

And he told his followers: "It's news to me that I'm dating. Didn't know anything about it. Lol.

"At the moment as you all know it's all about dance, dance, dance which is wonderfulll daaaaarling."

He added: "That's the reality, no drama here.

"Have a great day the sun is shining."

(Giovanni Pernice/Instagram)

Following his split from Maura, who starred in the 2019 series of Love Island, he told fans: "I just wanted to say a couple of things...

"Firstly, great relationships with great people can come to a natural end. This has been the case for me recently.

"There was absolutely no wrong-doing and this should be the end of any speculation."

He continued: 'Whilst I respect and understand interest in my personal life, wouldn't it be fantastic to instead use this space to raise awareness of subjects and issues which need the attention.

"My eyes have been opened to so many things during my career. But I am learning so much from this series of Strictly.

"The show has highlighted many important conversations for different communities and increased representation.

"These are the conversations which deserve the time, energy and recognition. We must concentrate on what's important and how we can all make a difference in life. Gio x."

Giovanni, who dated ex Coronation Street actress Georgia May Foote after they competed together in 2015, has won hearts on this year's Strictly with his moving performances with EastEnders actress Rose who is the BBC dance show's first deaf contestant.

The pair captivated the nation with a silent dance in honour of the deaf community.

The tribute wowed fans and encouraged many to take up British Sign Language.

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