Giovanni Pernice has issued a statement after being accused of “lewd behaviour” backstage at Strictly Come Dancing.
The Italian professional dancer, 33, has been faced with new allegations against him just days after it was confirmed he will be not returning to the BBC competition show this year, which he denies.
In the early hours of Sunday (June 16) morning, Giovanni took to Instagram to issue a defiant message to his followers. He wrote: “To my fans and followers, every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media. As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.
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“The latest accusations are simply false. I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth. As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.”
(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Giovanni said despite the accusations, he is “so happy to be back on tour” with Strictly co-star Anton Du Beke. He concluded: “Thank you all for your continued support – you messages and love mean so very much to me. I will hopefully see many of you very soon and I look forward to clearing my name. With love, Giovanni.”
(Image: instagram/@giovannipernice)
In the comments section, many of his 1.1 million followers sent supportive messages including Blue star Duncan James, who wrote: “Stay strong my friend. The truth always comes out in the end. Sending u love my bro.” Former I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! contestant Gillian McKeith added: “Stay strong. Your dedication and incredible talent will always shine brighter.”
(Image: WireImage)
One fan penned: “I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Gutted you’re not going to be on strictly this year. Hopefully you’ll be back next year! Stay strong.” Someone else said: “The way in which you’ve conducted yourself throughout this entire madness has only made me admire and respect you even more. You’re a class act Gio both on and off the dance floor. Love you lots x.”
The professional dancer has been embroiled in controversy for months after dancing with Amanda Abbington last year. After leaving the show just five weeks into the competition, the actress revealed she had suffered from PTSD “for several reasons”.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
