Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice was reportedly attacked by two masked muggers who sprayed him with a noxious substance.
According to The Sun, the professional dancer was out with friends in Epping, Essex on 25 August when two men pulled up in a car and grabbed his watch and rucksack.
They sprayed him with what is believed to be pepper spray, which temporarily “blinded” him.
Mr Pernice was treated at the scene by paramedics and is not believed to have suffered any long-term injuries from the incident.
Police are investigating the incident. The Independent has contacted representatives for Mr Pernice and the BBC for comment.
Strictly Come Dancing launches tonight (Saturday 7 September) at 7.10pm.
Kylie Minogue is set to open the star-studded launch show with a medley of her biggest hits as the dance professionals deliver a group routine.
The opening show will also feature musical performances from Mark Ronson and Grammy-award-winning artist YEBBA.
