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What we know about the Strictly Giovanni Pernice drama
Giovanni Pernice is reported to have quit Strictly Come Dancing
Strictly's Giovanni Pernice has been at a centre of ongoing tabloid story over his alleged "militant" approach to training on the BBC show. Amanda Abbington quit Strictly last year amid reports the couple were clashing off set.
Recent reports said the dancer quit Strictly after nine years. It was then reported that the star is the centre of an internal BBC probe into "serious workplace misconduct". Pernice denied "any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour" and vowed to clear his name.
The BBC promised to handle any complaints with "care, fairness and sensitivity", referring to a "high-profile" show believed to be Strictly on Wednesday.
It said: "Recently, we have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.
"If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken. This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint - that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.
"Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned. We will not be commenting further."
What we know
Rumours of a feud have been stirring in headlines for months between Pernice and Abbington who danced together on Strictly's 2023 series. Pernice admitted he is a "perfectionist" but he thought Abbington would make the final.
In January, Abbington revealed she was sent death threats after being diagnosed with mild post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
It was alleged that Abbington had demanded Strictly rehearsals footage. Plus it was claimed Abbington met with his other former partners Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh to discuss their Strictly experiences, and they were rumoured to be planning legal action.
Celebrities who have danced with Pernice have shared their experiences including Debbie McGee who defended him. Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas had defended Pernice in January saying he was an "absolute gentleman".
What Giovanni Pernice said in full
Pernice said he was looking forward to "clearing my name" as he spoke out against the allegations.
He wrote: "To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week. Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.
"Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me. I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be.
"This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni."
What we don't know
Strictly silence
While some stars have spoken out in support of Pernice in the past few months, it appeared none of the Strictly stars have liked or commented on his post to offer public support.
Ant McPartlin's ex-wife Lisa Armstrong, who has worked for years as a makeup artist on Strictly, did however like the Instagram statement.
His post was inundated with support from fans. Among the comments, one wrote: "Giovanni, anyone who saw you with Rose could see the man you are. Keep your head up."
Others wrote: "I hope you stay on Strictly, it wouldn't be the same without you! X."
"You are a true professional. Winning should be important & if folk aren't prepared to put the work in, they should stay at home & watch TV! X."
"It’s rubbish. True professional. All your fans stand with you."
Is Giovanni quitting Strictly?
The dancer didn't comment on whether he would be returning to the BBC show. He burst onto our screens as a pro dance in 2015 and quickly become one of the fan favourites on the show.
Pernice had an impressive track record on Strictly, having won in 2021 with Rose Ayling-Ellis and reaching the final four times with different celebrity partners.
The BBC has responded to the quitting rumours about Pernice. A BBC spokesperson said in a statement: "The professional dancers for Strictly Come Dancing 2024 will be announced in due course."
What will Giovanni Pernice do next?
It was reported Pernice wants to focus on his other TV projects in the pipeline. The pro dancer has hinted he would love a second series of Anton & Giovanni's Adventures In Spain in two posts on Instagram as well as in the finale of the show but no official decision on a follow-up season has been made yet.
Plus, it emerged he was tipped for I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here this year. A source told The Sun: "ITV bosses have wanted him for years and now he is finally free... Everyone is eager to get him on board - he really would be ideal for those jungle showers." It was added: "They are expected to offer him big money and he's unlikely to turn it down really."
Yahoo has reached out to representatives for Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington for further comment.
