Giovanni Pernice faces setback as dance partner quits amid cryptic announcement

Strictly's Giovanni Pernice is facing a new blow as a dancer departs his project with a cryptic message. The 33 year old had been conducting Ballando classes alongside Pasquale La Rocca, a professional on the Belgium edition of Dancing with the Stars.

However, this partnership appears to have run its course. Pasquale announced their split on Instagram, stating that the circumstances were "out of [his] control" and he wished to forge ahead rather than dwell on the past.

His lack of specifics left followers wondering what lead to the end of their dance classes.

The statement read: "Over the last few days I have received a lot of DMs and messages from you in regards to my dance classes. I thought I should clear the air and give you an update on what's happening from my side. Circumstances out of my control have brought my Ballando dance classes journey to an end. I don't wish to linger on this, but to move forward."

Despite the shake-up, Giovanni continues to be part of Ballando, with an upcoming event featuring Strictly judges Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke on the schedule. Amidst the fray, he firmly denied allegations of "threatening and abusive" behaviour during his stint on the BBC programme, reports the Mirror.

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Responding to the growing speculation, Giovanni declared on social media: "Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name."

It emerged following speculation about his behaviour on Strictly after his recent partnership with actress Amanda Abbington, who exited the series early for health reasons and later disclosed she suffered from PTSD. The BBC has reportedly initiated an internal probe following grievances lodged by Giovanni's former dance partners.

Allegations have surfaced that three female stars are pursuing legal action against him.

New reports suggest a male celebrity has now aligned with the women, having reached out to the lawyers representing them. An insider told The Sun: "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. He has also been in touch with Carter Ruck and told them what he knows, and shared his experiences."

Rumours are circulating that Giovanni has left Strictly Come Dancing after a nine-year stint, following a leaked memo that failed to list his name among the professional dancers for the upcoming season. Representatives for Giovanni and Pasquale have been approached by The Mirror for a statement.

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