Since Strictly began 20 years ago Italian dancers have become a staple of the Saturday night show.

But amid the ongoing bullying furore, the much-loved former Strictly pro, Ian Waite, has made a controversial plea to ban the nationality from partaking in the competition.

Giovanni Pernice, 34, exited the show in April following bullying allegations from his dance partner, Amanda Abbington and has denied all accusations.

Meanwhile fellow Italian Graziano Di Prima, 30, was sacked after he admitted to kicking his partner, Zara McDermott.

‘Well, there’s a link. They’re both Italian. And, a little bit of advice – don’t book Italians anymore,’ said Ian on the Stripping Off With Matt Haycox podcast.

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Former Strictly pro, Ian Waite, has made a controversial plea to ban the nationality from partaking in the competition

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Giovanni Pernice , 34, exited the show in April following bullying allegations. Meanwhile fellow Italian Graziano Di Prima , 30, was sacked

He said: ‘One of the problems is that, as pro dancers, we weren’t given any safeguarding rules or guidance on how we should behave with our celebrity partners.

‘What’s offensive or abusive if there are no clear guidelines?

‘We had to figure it out ourselves.’

Amid the ongoing bullying accusations, the 53-year-old dancer, who recently won Dancing with the Stars Australia, spoke out.

He said: ‘There were times when I fell out with my partner, yes. And there were even times when there were a lot of shouting matches going on, but it was for a good reason.

‘Unless it’s all filmed, it’s your word against theirs.’

The likes of Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace were nothing short of adored by fans for their electrifying performances and undeniable charm.

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Actress Amanda Abbington unexpectedly quit the show last October before claiming her partner Giovanni was abusive towards her

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The show was hit with a fresh wave of scandal when Graziano was sacked in July for ‘kicking’ his partner, Love Island star Zara McDermott

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The likes of Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace were nothing short of adored by fans for their electrifying performances and undeniable charm

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The show returned on Saturday amid much fanfare but viewing figures have failed to live up to the previous series

As Strictly’s 20th anniversary series grapples with controversy, the BBC carefully sidestepped the issue during Saturday’s launch show.

Professional dancer Amy Dowden – who is now cancer free – was a vision in a dazzling fuchsia ballroom gown twirling around as she displayed her incredible moves with her fellow dancers as part of her triumphant comeback.

Strictly’s Class of 2024 is made up of stars like EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, Love Island contestant Tasha Ghouri and JLS singer JB Gill.

Other contestants include  X Factor winner Shayne Ward, Miranda star Sarah Hadland and DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles.

Comedian Chris McCausland – who has made history as the show’s first blind participant – has already become a firm favourite  amongst fans thanks to his wicked sense of humour.