Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge Shirley Ballas has backed pro dancer Giovanni Pernice following a reported “feud” with his recent dance partner Amanda Abbington.
The TV star praised Giovanni saying: “My only ever experience with him is that of an absolute gentleman. He serves the show well and gives 100 percent, but you know…” and a “splendid teacher” when asked about the alleged disagreement between the two.
Amanda, known for her role in Sherlock, left Strictly in week five due to “medical reasons” in October 2023. It was recently reported that she sought professional help because of the “behaviour she was exposed to” on the show.
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The actress reportedly sought legal advice to get hold of backstage footage of their rehearsals after being diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following her exit from the show. Giovanni recently thanked fans and loved ones for their support on social media as he embarks on a new venture away from Strictly.
(Image: ITV)
The BBC is believed to be supporting Giovanni amidst these claims, which they consider “excessive”. The broadcaster responded to the allegations regarding Amanda and the request for footage, stating that they take duty of care “incredibly seriously”.
Shirley spoke about Giovaanni during Monday’s (January 15) episode of ITV’s Lorraine following her stint on The Masked Singer UK, where she was exposed as Rat over the weekend. Host Lorraine Kelly chimed in, noting that sometimes partnerships on Strictly just don’t work out.
(Image: ITV)
A source told The Mirror: “The feeling is he is a tough taskmaster, but hasn’t bullied or abused anyone. The BBC see him as a key face of Strictly and will do all they can to support him.” Reports about this situation had been surfacing from the start of the month.
A close friend of the actress shared with The Sun: “There is a feeling that the recordings will lift the lid on what really goes on behind the scenes on Strictly. Things in rehearsals can become very tense.” They also said that Giovanni could be “incredibly full-on” as he is a “perfectionist”.
(Image: BBC)
Meanwhile, the chiefs at Strictly say no formal complaint was ever made against the way Giovanni trains her partners. People working on the show accept that while Giovanni is quite picky and there may have been some “moans” about his training methods, his behaviour has never crossed the line or needed investigation. None of the star’s previous dance partners lodged any formal complaints either, according to reports.
Lorraine airs weekdays 9am on ITV1 and ITVX
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
