Giovanni Pernice hit back at Amanda Abbington after she broke her silence on the Strictly storm.
Last year, the Sherlock star shocked the nation when she sensationally quit the beloved BBC One dance competition on medical grounds. It was later alleged that the Italian has used “bullying” behaviour in the training room, which the pro dancer, 33, vehemently denies.
The 50-year-old actor, who claims she has received death threats from the dancer’s fans following the controversy, has now spoken out since the incident. She has accused the ballroom dancer of being “cruel and abusive” throughout the show.
READ MORE:Anton Du Beke dragged into BBC Strictly misconduct probe over racial remark
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However, a spokesperson for the Sicilian star has hit back at the claims. According to the Mail, they said: “The BBC has shared allegations from the inquiry with Giovanni, who has cooperated fully.
(Image: Getty Images)
“None of the allegations carried in the Sun on Sunday are included in any shape or form. Giovanni refutes these allegations and denies any accusations of abusive or threatening behaviour.
“He has provided substantive evidence to the investigation and he remains fully confident of clearing his name.” Strictly Come Dancing has been plagued with controversy in recent weeks.
A month ago, Giovanni and Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show following “gross misconduct” claims with Amanda and Zara McDermott. In a heartbreaking confession, Graziano confessed he kicked the former Love Island star, but denies spitting on her.
(Image: PA)
Meanwhile, Giovanni denies the “bullying” claims made against him and has vowed to clear his name. On Friday (July 19), there was yet more controversy when it was reported that former dance partner Laila Rouass has consulted a team of lawyers about a comment in 2009 made by judge Anton Du Beke despite having previously reportedly accepted his apology.
BBC bosses are thought to fear a £1million personal injury bill, as former contestants come forward to cite physical or mental health harm, and loss of earnings. The broadcaster has launched an internal probe and taken on two ex-Met detectives to quiz show staff.
It has since been confirmed that cast members will also have a chaperone around them “at all times” in the training rooms from now on. Claiming she couldn’t sit back and let Giovanni “do this to other people”, Amanda opened up to The Sun.
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
She explained: “I found Giovanni’s behaviour unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean. I couldn’t sit back and let him do that to other people. I had to think long and hard about making a complaint because I knew the backlash I would get.
“But I would not have been able to live with myself for future people going on that show. I know what happened in that room, it’s on video and I have no problem with anyone seeing that.
“It’s a duty of care that is needed. Rehearsal rooms should be a safe space, there is a duty of care and kindness, and that courtesy wasn’t extended to me on this job.” Daily Star has reached out to Giovanni Pernice’s representatives for a further comment.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
