A FAVOURITISM row has hit Strictly Come Dancing amid claims that Giovanni Pernice will be the same-sex couple pro dancer this year.
Bosses are set to pair the reigning champ with Radio 2’s Richie Anderson.
Rivals fear handing the coveted spot to Giovanni, 31, will mean the Italian will sail through to the Glitterball final again.
Strictly have already confirmed that 34-year-old Richie would be in a same-sex couple for the series starting next month.
He is following in the footsteps of boxer Nicola Adams and last year’s runner-up, TV baker John Whaite, who both danced in same-sex pairings.
An insider said: “Some of Gio’s fellow pros have raised eyebrows about chat of him getting Richie.
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“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.”
Last year he won the BBC1 show’s Glitterball trophy partnering EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis, 27.
Stars taking part this year include Countryfile’s Helen Skelton, former England footie star Tony Adams, singer Fleur East, Bros legend Matt Goss and Coronation Street’s Will Mellor and Kym Marsh.
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