The BBC have finally broken their silence on the ongoing investigation into the claims that professional dancer Giovanni Pernice “bullied” his former partner Amanda Abbington and two more.
The Italian dancer was paired with Abbington last year before she decided to step down from the show during week five, later claiming that she had suffered PTSD from her training with Pernice.
The Sherlock star took the claim further and enlisted the help of law firm Carter-Ruck, prompting two more of Pernice’s former partners to come forward – with their identities not yet being known.
Pernice and Strictly Come Dancing have kept quiet over the last couple of months but the BBC finally released a statement today regarding the ongoing investigation.
A BBC spokesperson said: “It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals. Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.
“Recently, we have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.
Amanda claimed she suffered PTSD from their training sessions
BBC
“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 – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.
“Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned.”
The spokesperson added: “We will not be commenting further.”
Amanda also claimed that Pernice purposefully stamped on her foot
BBC
The 33-year-old has vehemently denied the claims of “abuse” and has since hired the help of London-based law firm Schillings to shut down the claims and win the cases against him.
Pernice recently revealed that he was the one who asked Strictly producers to film their training sessions as it dawned on him after two weeks that some of Abbington’s behaviour left him “worried”.
A source previously told the Mail on Sunday: “Gio found the situation very unsettling so he asked that all sessions were recorded. It was totally unprecedented, but Gio started to see things in Amanda’s behaviour and wanted to ensure he was protected. What a relief he did.”
The Latin and Ballroom champion has continued to refute the allegations and told his Instagram followers: “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.
Giovanni has refuted all claims against him
BBC
“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.”