Giovanni Pernice shows off body transformation after Strictly Come Dancing exit

Giovanni Pernice has shown off the impressive results of his body transformation a year after leaving Strictly Come Dancing. The pro dancer is no stranger to keeping himself in shape, but looked incredible in new photos he posted on Instagram.

The 34-year-old shared 'before and after' shots of his torso in the same pair of mulberry coloured trousers, which he says were taken just five weeks apart. "5 weeks in," Gio said as showcased his new six-pack and toned biceps.

Celeb pals like Gemma Atkinson, who is engaged to Gio's Strictly pal Gorka Marquez, were quick to comment underneath. The actress and radio host, who is also into her fitness and regularly posts updates for her 2.1 million followers, simply posted five clapping hands emojis.

While actress and TV presenter Bianca Guaccero, who Gio was partnered and won the Italian version of Strictly with, posted: "Strength and determination! Good job my love!!!" Fans also showed their support with one writing: "Looking good Gio X." Another fan joked: "Well done Gio but you would look gorgeous even with a paper bag on your head!"

A third commented: "Well done you - hard work and consistency pays off, and the mindset of a champ." A fourth encouraged: "Keep up the great work." A fifth said: "Didn’t think you could improve on perfection, but Wow Gio!" While another flirty fan added: "You're very cuddly either way Gio!"

Italian dancer Gio quit Strictly last summer after nine years on the BBC show. It came after he faced allegations over his tough training methods from previous celebrity partners, including actress Amanda Abbington.

At the time he said he was 'surprised as his fans' after finding himself at the centre of 'abuse' claims. Amanda, 51, quit last year's Strictly series citing medical reasons. But she later went on to claim she suffered post traumatic stress disorder following her time on the show and that Gio had been "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean."

In a statement last year, Gio said vowed to 'clear his name' and told fans: "Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive.

"No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me. I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni."

BBC bosses launched an investigation into 17 claims made by Amanda. Of those, six were upheld relating to verbal bullying and harassment. But the most serious allegations of physical aggression were dismissed.

In light of the investigation being completed, the BBC said: "We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made. We want to apologise to Amanda Abbington and to thank her for coming forward and taking part. We know this would not have been an easy thing to do."

Gio is now trying to move on from the scandal, but has continued to perform in his own live shows. Speaking out about his 'dark year', he exclusively told the Sunday Mirror: "Sorry for my language but 2024 can f**k off. I've been looking forward to seeing the back of it."

He added: "I'm not going to lie, there were dark moments in terms of, you know, this is finished, this is the end of my career. That was one of my down moments."

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