There is less than two weeks to go until the BBC delivers up the final of this year's Strictly Come Dancing - and there are still a few surprises in store before we get there. Professional dancer and current reigning champion, Giovanni Pernice, has delighted fans with news of his 'new' Strictly partnership for a semi-final performance.
Giovanni, who rose to glory on the show lifting the 2021 Glitterball trophy alongside EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, remains a favourite on the hit programme despite being knocked out early in this year's competition. This year he was partnered with TV and radio personality Richie Anderson but was eliminated after a dance-off against Fleur East and Vito Coppola in early October.
The dance pro joined the show seven years ago, reaching the final with Georgia May Foote, Debbie McGee and Faye Tozer, before eventually lifting the trophy with Rose in 2021. He also continues to be a regular on the current show stepping out in group numbers and in the audience.
