Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice ‘expects to be cleared’ amid misconduct allegations after meeting with BBC to see evidence
GIOVANNI Pernice expects to be cleared amid the Strictly Come Dancing misconduct probe after a meeting with the BBC, it’s been reported.
The 33-year-old was paired with Amanda Abbington for Strictly last year, who complained to the BBC that she endured five weeks of inappropriate behaviour on the last series.
She later pulled out of the competition and was diagnosed with PTSD.
Today Amanda broke her silence over the scandal for the first time, telling The Sun on Sunday: “I found Giovanni’s behaviour unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean. I couldn’t sit back and let him do that to other people.”
“I know what happened in that room, it’s on video and I have no problem with anyone seeing that. It’s a duty of care that is needed.
“Rehearsal rooms should be a safe space, there is a duty of care and kindness, and that courtesy wasn’t extended to me on this job.”
However the Mirror reports that Gio expects to be cleared after being shown evidence during a meeting with BBC bosses – with Amanda’s comments not included in the dossier.
A source told them: “This would suggest her more serious claims are without merit – and is a massive boost to Giovanni’s case.
“They have clearly done their own due diligence on some of her allegations and decided they didn’t warrant inclusion in what was needed to be shared with Giovanni for response.”
Today Amanda claimed her experience with Giovanni was “not an isolated incident”.
She said: “I was being as amenable as possible and it wasn’t being reciprocated, that’s all.
“And I wanted to complain about it because I didn’t think it was fair — this is a publicly owned company.
“It’s insane what has happened to me, with the death threats and backlash.
“I know the BBC knew about Giovanni’s behaviour for years, people had complained about him and flagged his behaviour to producers in the past and nothing was done. It wasn’t an isolated experience with me. I should never ever have danced with him.”
Other stars have complained about the behaviour of Gio and fellow Italian Graziano Di Prima, and Amanda said: “I’m proud of the people who have come forward. Daring to say something is a big step for people.
“The BBC must have been turning a blind eye and the fact other people have come forward must mean there is something going on that is endemic.”
Last week Graziano, 30, was axed from Strictly following claims he “hit, spat at and kicked” Zara McDermott during training sessions last year.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.