Giovanni Pernice reveals huge support from fans amid BBC ‘misconduct probe’ and Strictly exit
GIOVANNI Pernice proudly revealed the huge support from fans as he’s probed by the BBC.
The former Strictly star is currently being investigated following complaints from Amanda Abbington and three former dance partners.
He has strongly denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to clean his name.
Since leaving strictly, he’s been focusing on his work and teamed up with Anton Du Beke for their ‘Together’ tour.
Taking to the stage in matching suits made of black and white material, the duo shot a short video on socials.
Anton told the camera: “Here we are at the Cliffs Pavilion in South End on Sea, we’ve had a lovely time but we’re a bit disappointed because we put on a show and sadly, no body turned up.”
The dancers then stepped aside to reveal hundreds of faces in the audience, who were all cheering.
The lights went up as the camera panned across the theatre hall.
Giovanni has been travelling the country with his Strictly pal as the rumours and accusations unfold.
The pair were cheered on in Guildford last night by Loose Women star Ruth Langsford.
The Sun first reported that Giovanni, 33, quit Strictly back in May after it emerged that there would be an investigation into allegations about behind the scenes ‘misconduct’.
It came after Giovanni’s last celebrity partner, Amanda, left the show early due to ‘medical reasons’ – and has since instructed legal firm Carter Ruck after claiming her time working with Giovanni left her with PTSD.
But now many supporters of the Italian dancer believe that Giovanni has been unfairly treated and feel like he was forced out before the probe has been finished.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.
One said: “Disgusting the way Gio has been treated, have been watching Strictly since the start but will boycott this year!”
Asecond chimed in: “Won’t be the same without Gio.”
“Strictly won’t be Strictly without Gio,” agreed a third.
The boycott threats come as Amanda was spotted looking tearful in the street after revealing she had received death threats.
She was seen visiting London member’s bar Groucho Club in Soho with friends and at one point, looked emotional with a pal.
Amanda was snapped shared a cuddle in the street with her actress friend Sue Vincent, who looked to be consoling her.
Amanda, who has quit social media, recently revealed she had been targeted by Gio supporters in the wake of him leaving the show, telling us: “I’m very sorry that people felt the need to send me death threats, threaten my children and bring up my past, healthy relationship with an ex-partner as an indicator of my current mental health. I wish those people well.”
She has accused Giovanni of being “nasty” and “awful” to her, which the dancer has steadfastly denied.
In a statement at the weekend, Giovanni posted on social media: “To my fans and followers,” and continued in the text with the words: “As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.
“The latest accusations are simply false.
“I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.
“As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.”