Strictly star Shirley Ballas has backed Giovanni Pernice amid BBC’s investigation into his behaviour on the show.
Dancer Giovanni is currently the subject of an ongoing internal investigation by the channel. It comes following accusations of bullying and abuse from former partners, something he vehemently denies.
Among those who have come forward with their own claims include the likes of Amanda Abbington and Laura Whitmore. While Ranvir Singh has also spoke out about the dancer.
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What’s more, last week, Giovanni was confirmed not to be taking part in this year’s series of Strictly. Instead, several other professionals will grace the dancefloor including Neil Jones, Amy Dowden and reigning champion Vito Coppola.
Now, the show’s judge Shirley has shared her viewers on his shock exit and the allegations surrounding Giovanni. Talking to the Mirror, she said he’d be “missed” on the show.
“I know he is a hard worker. He wants the people to do the very best that they can do,” Shirley revealed.
“Obviously in my life I was bullied a lot. I don’t condone bullying on any path but also I don’t believe gossip and what you read in the newspapers because things get escalated and they are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball.
“So my feeling for Giovanni is, let them do this investigation or whatever it is they are doing and the truth will come out. We don’t judge anybody until I know absolutely 100 per cent. I won’t pass on the gossip unless I know 100 per cent it is true.”
The show judge added: “I have never ever, ever experienced any ill will or bad feeling or bad sportsmanship or rudeness from him. He will be missed.”
The BBC’s investigation was called following allegations of workplace misconduct at the hands of the Sicilian performer during last year’s series. Partner Amanda Abbington quit the competition after just five weeks, amid rumours of a rift between her and Pernice.
After the show, she claimed the process caused her to develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Lawyers for the Sherlock actress have asked for tapes of the couple’s rehearsals and training to help in their case, as several other stars who have previously worked with Giovanni came forward, including Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
