The findings of the BBC’s probe into allegations against Giovanni Pernice could reportedly be released within hours.
The broadcaster has reportedly concluded their investigation into claims against the dancer, who left the BBC show earlier this year. And it’s said the findings will be revealed on Tuesday (September 10) ahead of the new series of Strictly, which kicks off on Saturday (September 14).
It’s also claimed that Giovanni’s former dancer partner, Sherlock star Amanda Abbington, is “braced for bad news”. According to The Sun, the actress suspects bosses have sided with Giovanni.
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A source told the outlet: “The BBC are hopeful they will finally be able to share the findings of the probe but considering there have been so many delays, nothing is set in stone. It is accepted the dossier won’t be released in full but instead a simple statement may be put out covering the conclusion.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Either way there are many interested parties and it could pave the way for more celebrities or crew members to speak up. It’s down to the wire, but the BBC hope the sparkle of the new series launch could sweep away the scandal.”
Amanda Abbington claimed Giovanni was “unnecessary, abusive, cruel, and mean” towards her during their time on the show. Pernice has strongly denied all wrongdoing and has vowed to clear his name.
(Image: Getty Images)
A source previously claimed the BBC has felt “huge pressure” to conclude the probe before the launch of the new series, which stars the likes of TV presenter Nick Knowles, JLS singer JB Gill, Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, actress Sarah Hadland, Olympian Montell Douglas and Olympic swimmer Tom Dean MBE. A source told The Sun: “The BBC is under huge pressure to get this probe done and dusted before September 14 when the new series kicks off.
“It’s a ticking time bomb to get it done in time while not leaving any stone unturned. All evidence has been reviewed, and it is looking like we are now days away from an announcement.
(Image: PA)
“Clearly the BBC are desperate to draw a line under all this and move on. But whatever the verdict it is clear there will be more questions for the corporation to answer and potentially even more historical complaints.”
Discussing the alleged abuse, Amanda previously claimed: “I know it happened because it happened to me. I am not a sensational person… I’m not hysterical. I don’t make things out to be bigger than they are.
“I know what happened to me in that room wasn’t acceptable…” Giovanni said in June he was “co-operating fully” with the BBC’s investigation and that he was looking forward to “establishing the truth”.
Daily Star has contacted the BBC for comment.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
