Strictly Come Dancing professiobnal is reportedly embroiled in a favouritism row after it was claimed that Giovanni Pernice was chosen as the same-sex couple pro dancer in this year's series.
The series is returning with a star-studded line-up, including the likes of Helen Skelton, Fleur East and Matt Goss, and rumours began swirling about who's being partnered up with who.
It has been reported that Giovanni - who won last series with soap actress Rose Ayling-Ellis - will be paired with Radio 2's Richie Anderson.
The pro dancer's fellow colleagues are said to be worried that he will fly through to the final again.
A source revealed to The Sun : "Some of Gio’s fellow pros have raised eyebrows about chat of him getting Richie.
"The last two same-sex couples have done really well and the feeling is that whoever gets Richie could go all the way and win it.
"Winning two on the bounce would be great for Gio — but not all of his colleagues feel the same way."
The Mirror have contacted Strictly representatives asking for comment.
Giovanni and Rose captured viewers hearts with their performances on last year's series.
The Couple's Choice dance with Rose, in week 8, featured a period of silence, included as a tribute to the deaf community.
Judge Anton Du Beke called it "the greatest thing I've ever seen on the show" and it even earned the dup the 2021 Heat Unmissables Award for TV Moment of the Year.
Their win in December was a first for Giovanni.
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A few months after their win, Giovanni shared a sweet tribute to the soap actress on social media.
The emotional star thanked the EastEnders star for 'the best six month of his life' as he posted a sweet throwback snap of the pair performing on the BBC dance competition.
Giovanni told Rose that he loves her in the gushing caption as he shared his gratitude for having met a friend for life.
"The end of our Strictly journey but the beginning of an eternal friendship!! I love you @rose.a.e. THANK YOU for the best 6 months of my life," he penned.
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