Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice insists he will be cleared over ‘abusive behaviour’ as he comments for first time on claims
STRICTLY’S Giovanni Pernice insists he is confident he will be cleared over allegations of abusive behaviour.
The under-fire dancer, 33, said BBC bosses will drop their investigation once recordings of training sessions were reviewed.
At a personal appearance to launch his own fragrance, he commented for the first time on the claims made by some of his celebrity partners.
Giovanni made his comments to Perfumery & Co store co-owner David McConnachie in Ringwood, Dorset, where he unveiled his unisex perfume Vita in front of 150 people.
David said: “He said he is very confident it will all be sorted out soon.
“He said all the training sessions had been recorded and he was sure that once they have all been reviewed it will all be resolved.”
Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, 52, left last year’s competition early, claiming she was mistreated by the dancer.
Several other former Strictly partners are said to have made similar allegations against him.
The Beeb’s internal investigators are said to be looking at recordings of training sessions with Amanda and others to see if there is any evidence of wrongdoing.
Giovanni has rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour made against him.
Despite the controversy David said the Sicilian was a big hit with fans at the perfume launch.
He added: “They were queuing round the block to see him.
“He had unwavering support.
“Giovanni was absolutely lovely.
“He had one-on-one meetings with everyone and was so charming.
“He was energetic from the first customer to the last.”