Fresh blow for Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice as money-spinning business suddenly and mysteriously disappears
GIOVANNI Pernice has been dealt a fresh blow as his money-spinning side business has mysteriously disappeared.
The under-fire former Strictly Come Dancing professional quit the show earlier this year following a complaint by actress Amanda Abbington.
It sparked a probe being launched by BBC bosses, with the findings yet to be disclosed.
But now it’s been revealed Giovanni‘s unisex fragrance VITA has mysteriously disappeared from the market.
Launched last year, the scent was described by the 33-year-old as “an intoxicating scent that captures the sensuality, vitality and energy of Sicily”.
The official website for the fragrance now informs potential customers that the online store “is currently unavailable”.
Its Instagram account also appears to have been deleted from the social platform.
According to Companies House, GP VTA Ltd – the company behind the scent – had four directors when it was incorporated in June 2023.
However, today Italian native Gio is the sole director, after two directors resigned just this month.
Another director had left their role from the company in December 2023.
The Sun has contacted Giovanni’s rep for comment.
Meanwhile, it was recently revealed how Giovanni had signed up to the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing.
Announcing the news, he told delighted fans: “Hey guys !!
“I’m delighted to announce that from next week I will be joining the cast of @ballandoconlestelle – the Italian Dancing with the Stars.
“I can’t wait to get started and to get back to dancing for all of you! Thank you for all of your continued support!”
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.