Strictly's Giovanni Pernice learns sign language for Rose Ayling-Ellis and fans love it

Virgin Radio

18 Oct 2021, 08:12

Professional dancer Giovanni Pernice is a popular member of the Strictly gang, and now fans have another reason to adore him, as he is learning sign language to assist his partner Rose Ayling-Ellis. 

The EastEnders actress is the first ever deaf person to compete in the BBC’s much-loved dancing show, and she’s been impressing judges and viewing audiences from the very beginning of the new series. 

Giovanni too, received plaudits at the weekend, and not just for his dancing skills. Not only did he and Rose secure their place in the next round with their Cha Cha Prince’s Raspberry Beret, but Giovanni’s signing skills were noticed by fans and the show’s hosts alike. 

Interviewing the dancing couple after they had been confirmed as making it through to next week’s show, Claudia Winkleman said: “Giovanni you have been learning so much signing. Can you give us a taste please?”

Rose then tested Giovanni’s skills by getting him to sign words, such as commitment, focus, quick, slow, and improvement.

The 26-year-old actor joked that Giovanni rarely gets to use the phrase “well done”.

Fans have taken to social media to express their admiration of Giovanni and Rose’s partnership.

One fan wrote: “I think Giovanni Pernice is the perfect partner for Rose. He's just lovely and So patient and understanding of any difficulties Rose has with hearing. Rose and Giovanni must work extremely hard to perfect the stunning dances they perform each week. I love them.”

Another added: “Rose and Giovanni are just the cutest partnership ever to grace us on the show! I love how he is learning sign language. She’s so sweet and her personality is just a joy." 

Someone else wrote: “Giovanni is really showing us he’s a great character and he and Rose are adorable.”

Week four didn’t quite go as well for all the contestants, however. Judi Love found herself in the dreaded dance off for the second week in a row, where she took on Greg Wise.

One again, the judges chose to save Judi, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke voting to send Greg home.

There was also no Robert Webb on Strictly at the weekend, as he quit the show ahead of week four due to health concerns.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday evening on BBC One.