BBC bosses are reportedly looking into Giovanni Pernice’s stint on Strictly Come Dancing to see if there could be any future complaints of his conduct.
Producers of the smash dancing competition have been on tenterhooks over the past week, as more allegations of “abuse” have been made by some of Pernice’s co-workers. It’s believed some celebrity faces have already come forward, including actress Amanda Abbington.
Now, as a way to pre-empt any potential future complaints, BBC bosses have reportedly ordered the show to look back through its archive to find as much training footage of Giovanni as possible. This is to span the entire nine years that he has been a part of the show.
READ MORE: Giovanni Pernice’s sister issues statement on Strictly star’s ‘abuse’ claims
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Sherlock actress Amanda, who has been one of the most vocal in her complaints, said that she would ensure there would be “nothing unsaid” as she would recount her story. The star is set to meet those carrying out an independent investigation into the 33-year-old Italian’s conduct on the show.
(Image: PA)
Speaking to The Sun, a source close to the actress said she is determined to get others to come forward. “Amanda believes she has a duty to ensure the truth comes out,” they said.
“There’s a suggestion this is all about Giovanni simply being a strict trainer and someone who pushes people too hard – it’s about a lot more than that,” the insider added. “Meanwhile the BBC who have, until now, dragged their heels on this developing story, are duty-bound to investigate the matter fully to get to the bottom of these complaints.”
The source went on to confirm that producers have been looking back at footage from when Giovanni was on the show. This is to give a “full and frank verdict” when the investigation is finished.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Pernice has strongly denied all the allegations made against him by Amanda, and by other celebrity stars who believed he pushed them beyond their limits. Presenter Laura Whitmore also came forward with her own stories of pressure, while another unnamed celebrity has reportedly lodged a formal complaint with the BBC about their time with the Sicilian.
It comes following the news that Giovanni had seemingly “quit” the show, though Giovanni himself has not confirmed the story. Afterwards, it was revealed that a well-known legal firm had received several complaints regarding the professional dancer and were looking for representation for a potential case.
(Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston)
Up until last month, the BBC was standing by Giovanni, as they refused to look into the allegations made against him. The channel has not officially commented on the complaints, but a spokesperson for Carter Ruck explained that the broadcaster was “evidence gathering”.
Pernice, who is currently on holiday in Madeira with his girlfriend Molly Brown, said he was “surprised” that he was in the news for his training methods. “Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name,” he said.
“Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive,” Gio added. “No one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
