Giovanni Pernice issues denial he was 'abusive and threatening'

Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has issued a denial over allegations he was "threatening or abusive" during his training sessions with Amanda Abbington and has vowed to "clear his name". Actress Amanda took part in the 2023 series of the BBC dance competition but left early citing medical reasons.

Amanda later claimed her time on the show had left her with post-traumatic stress disorder. She has reportedly told friends she felt Giovanni was "abrasive" with her while training, reports The Mirror.

It was reported Amanda had asked to see behind-the-scenes footage of their time training together. The BBC are reportedly investigating. The corporation is said to be "evidence gathering".

A leaked internal memo has failed to feature Giovanni's name among this year's roster of professional dancers on Strictly. The dancer has issued a statement "rejecting any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour" via his Instagram account.

It reads: "To my dear fans, You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week. Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.

"Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me. I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be.

"This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni."

A source told The Sun Amanda had been in tears during her time on Strictly and claimed "crisis talks" happened on Fridays after their rehearsals. "She desperately wanted it to work but invariably it would break down," they said. "An urgent medical condition eventually allowed her to quit."

Giovanni is reported to have had talks with the BBC over his return to the series, with one source stating the BBC was "welcoming him back with open arms." In a statement shared with the Mirror, a BBC spokesperson said: "The Professional Dancers for Strictly Come Dancing 2024 will be announced in due course."

The Mirror contacted Giovanni and Amanda's representatives for comment as well as the BBC.