Giovanni Pernice has been publicly backed by former Strictly partner Debbie McGee after his exit from the BBC show was confirmed.
The BBC confirmed Pernice wouldn’t be part of the new line-up of professional dancers earlier this week following a series of “bullying” and “misconduct” allegations.
Giovanni Pernice and Debbie McGee competed together on Strictly in 2017
GETTY
Sharing a snap of herself with Pernice during a performance in the 2017 series, McGee penned on Instagram: “I am heartbroken for @giovannipernice.
“My experience on Strictly will always be happy and life changing. Gio nurtured me through my grief and gave me confidence I could do things I thought was beyond me.”
It’s not the first time McGee has thrown her backing behind Pernice since the allegations hit headlines.
Back in January, McGee shared another snap with the dancer and penned: “Happy memories. Giovanni and I had the best of times on Strictly.”
After hearing Pernice won’t be involved in this year’s show, Jordan told ITV’s This Morning: “For him to have four people come forward, there’s clearly something there…
“It’s a shame it has come to this. The only thing I will say is there is no smoke without fire and I have always protected the professional dancers and we don’t know the ins and outs of it.”
While Pernice’s exit has dominated headlines since Strictly unveiled the line-up of this year’s pros, there was cause for celebration for Amy Dowden fans.
The Welsh dancer was forced to miss out on last year’s show as she battled stage 3 breast cancer.
Amanda Abbington has lodged complaints against Giovanni Pernice
BBC
However, Dowden has since been given the green light to participate in the 2024 series after discovering “no evidence of disease” back in February.
Describing her joy at rejoining the cast, Dowden penned on Instagram: “I’m so happy and grateful to be back on @bbcstrictly. MY HEART IS SO HAPPY.
“The best team on and off the dance floor. I can’t wait to be back doing what I love most in the world, dancing! Feel blessed and more excited than EVER.
“Bring it on! Thank you @bbcstrictly for your support always. Eeeeeekkk #amysback #strictlycomedancing #letsdothis #excited #cantwait #myheartissohappy,” she signed off. (sic)