The Strictly Come Dancing scandal has deepened further following claims from a man of alleged “abuse” from Giovanni Pernice, which he strongly denies.
In a twist to the ongoing story, the famous face has become the first man to come forward regarding claims that the Italian pro had been too intense in training. Sources told The Sun that the person has been in touch with legal representatives who are working on other people’s cases.
They reportedly told the newspaper: “After three women came forward, a man has now joined their ranks. He personally reached out to the women at the heart of this unfolding crisis, offering them his support and full backing.”
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They added: “He has also been in touch with Carter Ruck and told them what he knows, and shared his experiences. These experiences were, at times, very tricky.”
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
It comes as another turn in the story, as previous claimants have all been women. Many of those who have come forward with allegations of “abuse” have included Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, Good Morning Britain star Ranvir Singh and former Love Island host Laura Whitmore.
Just weeks ago, Strictly hunk Gio said he would be “quitting” the show, amid the claims being made against him – which he vehemently denies. The professional dancer from Sicily had been probed over his training style, which had been described as “brutal”.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Within one day of the story breaking, the Carter Ruck law firm had confirmed that the BBC had opened an internal investigation into alleged workplace misconduct at the hands of Pernice. Several of the star’s former dance partners on the show have since come out to give their grievances to the probe, including Abbington and Whitmore.
Investigations into Giovanni’s training methods came after actress Amanda quit the BBC show midway through the series. In the weeks that followed, Amanda claimed that the process gave her post-traumatic stress disorder, whilst branding the Italian star as “nasty”.
In an attempt to clear his name, Gio has contacted top-flight legal firm Schillings to defend him going forward in any potential claims. A spokesperson for the dancer added that he was “fully cooperating” with the BBC regarding the claims being made.
(Image: Instagram/ Giovanni Pernice)
In a statement issued to The Sun, the BBC said: “If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken. This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint.”
The broadcaster added that though the show can be a positive experience for much of the time, claims of brutality in training need to be looked at. “We will always look at any issues with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned,” they added.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
