Giovanni Pernice looks downcast as Strictly star seen for first time since Amanda Abbington got legal advice over ‘feud’
GIOVANNI Pernice appeared downcast as he stepped out today amid his feud with Amanda Abbington.
The Strictly dancer, 33, was spotted taking a break during rehearsals and looked in a pensive mood.
It comes after The Sun on Sunday revealed yesterday that Amanda is demanding footage of their rehearsals after seeking legal advice.
The Sherlock star has said she has PTSD after their pairing.
She believes the hours of their practice tapes could support her claims about the pro dancer’s alleged behaviour towards her.
Amanda quit the show in October citing medical reasons, after her time with Giovanni, who is regarded as a “perfectionist”, was blighted by a series of rows.
She believes the hours of their practice tapes could support her claims about the pro dancer’s alleged behaviour towards her.
At least one other star, GMB’s Ranvir Singh, also complained about the Italian, while former Steps singer Faye Tozer is understood to have clashed with him.
Last night, TV personality Richie Anderson had unfollowed his former dance partner on Instagram, while ex-Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore previously said she was “broken” by her time with him.
The Sun can reveal bosses secretly had a meeting with Giovanni, 33, about his conduct last year, but no action was taken.
A source said: “Some of the professionals and crew feel it needs to be dealt with and Giovanni shouldn’t come back this year.
“The BBC are standing behind Giovanni and won’t be pursuing an investigation.
“It’s a shock to some on the show who think something needs to be done about his behaviour.
“Amanda had a really tough time with him and she isn’t the only one.
“Four more of his partners have either talked openly about how hard it was working with him or have made it clear in the industry.”
A source close to the pro said: “Gio finds some of these allegations deeply unfair and offensive.
“He has had support from producers over what has happened recently and they are behind him. A lot of the negativity seems to be born out of professional jealousy, especially among the other pro dancers because he went on to get his own TV show with Anton Du Beke.
“Gio believes he’s done nothing wrong, and simply wants to get the best out of his partners.”