BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has announced he will be taking a 'break' from the spotlight, sharing an emotional message with his fans. The professional dancer paid a heartfelt tribute to his 2024 tour as it concluded, hinting that it might be a while before fans see him perform again, according to reports from the Mirror.

This news has sparked concerns about whether he will return to the BBC show this year. Giovanni has recently been delighting fans with his Let Me Entertain You live tour, which toured across the UK and wrapped up at the end of April. In recent weeks, fans have had the opportunity to get even closer to the star through his touring dance class show, Ballando, which he has been leading alongside fellow dancer Pasquale La Rocca.

However, Giovanni is now taking a break from this project too, suggesting that he is reducing his commitments. On Sunday, he took a moment to reflect on his recent dance class experiences, expressing his gratitude for the Ballando tour.

Taking to Instagram Stories to express his gratitude, he wrote: "Thank you! ! ! To everyone we have seen over the last 4 months thank you so much for the support, the energy and of course the dancing! Ballando On Tour may be over... but Ballando is not! ", reports the Daily Record.

He added: "We have lots more to come, and of course the event with the judges and Gio at the end of June. See you all soon! " This comes after he previously hinted on social media about taking a performing hiatus, only to return in 2025 with an intriguing new show titled 'The Last Dance'.

His post stated: "I have had a wonderful time this year on my solo tour and already looking forward to even bigger and better next year! After performing in front of over half a million people for seven years in row, I plan to take a little break after next year's tour, so book your tickets in advance for GIOVANNI - THE LAST DANCE."

As of now, the BBC has not confirmed which professional dancers will be returning for the upcoming 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Giovanni Pernice left the 2023 season unexpectedly when his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington, aged 51, withdrew from the competition due to health issues.

Abbington later indicated that she suffered from PTSD following her experience on the show and considered legal action against the show and broadcaster. Additionally, several former dance partners of Giovanni came forward with claims that he was difficult to work with.

Amid rumours of losing his place on the dancing show, the BBC has reportedly backed the Italian performer, according to insiders speaking to The Sun earlier this year. They stated: "Some of the professionals and crew feel it needs to be dealt with and Giovanni shouldn't come back this year. The BBC are standing behind Giovanni and won't be pursuing an investigation. It's a shock to some on the show who think something needs to be done about his behaviour."