Stacey Dooley kept her lips sealed regarding the ongoing controversy involving Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice during a segment on BBC Breakfast
Host Jon Kay tried to get her opinion on the recent scandal, but she stoutly stated: “I don’t have a friendship with Giovanni. I didn’t even have a working relationship with Giovanni.”
The 34-year-old Italian dancer has been grabbing headlines, addressing rampant rumours that he’s “quit” the show and is under a so-called “investigation” by the BBC due to allegations, reportedly from two other celebs, including Amanda Abbington.
READ MORE: Craig Revel Horwood says he wouldn’t leave Strictly amid Giovanni Pernice exit rumours
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Jon pushed Stacey further, leading with: “While you’re here, before we get to the news, I have to talk to you about Strictly. Giovanni made a statement over the weekend saying he rejects any suggestion of any threatening or abusive behaviour, and you don’t want to talk about that case and those allegations.
(Image: BBC)
“But I guess it shines a spotlight on the intensity of that Strictly world.”
Stacey retorted: “Yeah, what I would say is I don’t have a friendship with Giovanni. I didn’t even have a working relationship with Giovanni.
“And I haven’t been involved with that show for years. So it would be probably irresponsible for me to comment on that.”
Stacey shared her thoughts on the matter, saying: “What I would say, more broadly, is I hope all of the women involved are ok. And I think, actually, it’s separate from this but in my personal experience, I think it’s a slippery slope not to believe women when they come forward and say certain things. But I just hope they’re ok,” reports the Mirror.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Sally also gave her opinion on the event, adding: “It’s a difficult time for the programme.”
In response, Stacey agreed and humorously emphasised: “Yeah, me and Kev [Clifton] are so boring. He’s pals with a lot of the professionals but I don’t know enough about that incident to comment.”
Over the weekend, Giovanni used Instagram as a platform to address the recent scandal stating: “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.”
(Image: Ash Knotek/REX/Shutterstock)
Further discussing his Strictly Come Dancing journey, he said: “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.”
In the closing of his statement, Giovanni highlighted his zeal and commitment by highlighting: “I have always strived 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. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
