Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice has spoken out about his split from former Love Island star Maura Higgins.
Confirming their separation on Instagram, the dancer, 31, insisted there is no bad blood between the pair, and sometimes ‘great relationships with great people can come to a natural end.’
Taking to his story, the choreographer clarified: ‘There was absolutely no wrong-doing and this should be the end of any speculation.’
He continued with a plea for the rumours to be put to bed, writing: ‘While I respect and understand interest in my personal life, wouldn’t it be fantastic to instead use this space to raise awareness of subjects and issues which need the attention.’
Wanting to use his platform of 562k for good, Giovanni added: ‘My eyes have been opened to so many things during my career, but I am learning so much from this series of Strictly.
‘The show has highlighted many important conversations for different communities and increased representation.’
He stressed that ‘these are the conversations which deserve the time.’
It seems Giovanni – who has become a fan favourite on the show – is referring to the first male-male partnership between John Whaite and Johannes Radebe, and his coupling with Rose Ayling-Ellis, who is deaf.
The pair made history by incorporating sign language into their routine last week.
The pro lovingly signed off his statement by reminding his followers: ‘We must concentrate on what’s important and how we can all make a difference in life,’ followed by his nickname, Gio and a single kiss.
Giovanni and Maura went public with their romance in July this year following weeks of secret dates, and they seemed besotted with one another.
Irish TV personality Maura, 30, frequently gushed over her beau on Instagram, referring to him as ‘my man.’
The reality star is yet to comment on the split, but has since deleted all traces of Giovanni from her Instagram.
Meanwhile, Giovanni and EastEnders actor Rose sailed through to Strictly’s much-loved Halloween week, after scoring their first 10 on Saturday night.
They danced a Viennese Waltz to Fallin’ by Alicia Keys, which blew both viewers and the judges away.
Metro.co.uk has contacted Maura’s reps for comment.
Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday at 7:10pm on BBC One.
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