Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice has been spotted giving a thumbs-up sign as he fights to clear his name amid the show’s controversy.
The 33-year-old dancer is currently facing allegations of “threatening and abusive” behaviour during training sessions on the BBC One show, which he strongly denies. Following these claims, it has been reported that the BBC has initiated an internal investigation after receiving complaints from the Sicilian’s former dance partners.
Gio has since pledged to “clear his name”.
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He was seen in London wearing a Made In Italy t-shirt, designer sunglasses, and a black leather Louis Vuitton backpack. The star appeared upbeat as he smiled for the cameras, giving a thumbs-up and showing off his “Never Give Up” tattoo.
(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)
He then checked his phone as he left dance rehearsals for his show with Strictly judge, Anton Du Beke, reports the Mirror.
Anton, who has also collaborated with his friend Gio on their BBC travel show, was also seen smiling as he left the first day of rehearsals with the embattled Strictly star. The pair departed just minutes apart, heading in separate directions.
(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)
Gio, who is dealing with allegations of “abusive behaviour” from previous celebrity dance partners, including Sherlock actress, Amanda Abbington, shared a video on Instagram with Anton as they prepare for their joint tour this summer.
Anton and Giovanni are buzzing to hit the road with their new stage show, Anton and Giovanni Together: The Live Tour, and they’ve dropped a cheeky video to prove it. Captioning the clip with a shout-out that screams “TOGETHER Again! ! ! NOT TO BE MISSED! ! @mrantondubeke @giovannipernice.”
(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)
The lads are clearly chuffed to bits about their upcoming gig. In the heartwarming vid, Anton gushes: “First day of rehearsals. Always my favourite day. Second day, less so.”
Gio, beaming with excitement, wraps an arm around his mate, telling all their followers: “We are back on tour! It feels nice, it’s lovely. We can’t wait to see all of you!”
(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)
Gio spills the beans on the tour dates, saying: “We open on the 14th of June and then we’re out on the road until the end of July. Very, very exciting, It’s going to be a great show, we’ve got the most amazing cast. Our dancers and singers are remarkable.”
Anton chips in with a solid: “Unbelievable.”
The dynamic duo wrap up the announcement with a cosy hug as Gio declares: “The show is called Together, as you know. And whatever we do, we’re going to get through it together.”
But it’s not all sequins and spotlights for Giovanni. Earlier this month, the Italian stallion fiercely denied claims he was “threatening or abusive” during his training sessions with celebs, including the Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington.
(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)
Determined to set the record straight, he took to Instagram, stating: “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.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
