SHIRLEY BALLAS has officially broken her silence to throw her support behind Giovanni Pernice.
After three former stars made official complaints about Giovanni conduct on Strictly – the stars of the show have largely remained silent on the matter as the BBC investigate.
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But head judge Shirley has now broken rank to speak in support of Giovanni and his strict training methods.
Speaking to Best Magazine, Shirley said: “I think everybody in the Strictly cast is fantastic and I’ve known Giovanni a long, long time.
“I’ve known him probably longer than a lot of people have known him and I can only talk from personal experience. He’s got a work ethic that is the same as mine.”
“He works hard and he wants the best for anybody who wants to learn,” she said. “He’s a true gentleman, and of course, he always looks drop-dead gorgeous.
“He always puts his best foot forward and is always on time, he’s one of those very thoughtful people. He called me the other day to invite my mum to a show he was doing because they love each other.
“As popular as he is, he will always try and make his way to any fan who wants to see him and will always make them feel super-special.”
Her comments come after the BBC brought in former Met Police officers in order to interview those involved in the scandal.
A source said: “The BBC is taking this extremely seriously.
“Two ex-Met cops are conducting all the interviews and have been tasked with gathering evidence — including texts and screenshots — which they will present to corporation executives.
“Giovanni has not yet been spoken to.”
It’s been reported Giovanni made a “lewd” gesture to his dance partner during rehearsals, while others have complained about his “militant” training style.
Since the initial three complaints, believed to have been spearheaded by Amanda Abbington, a fourth star has come forward claiming they needed “months of therapy” after working with him.
Amanda later came forward in an interview to brand Giovanni ‘nasty’ as she spoke about her experience.
In light of the accusations, Giovanni has officially quit the series, and has hired a top law firm in order to clear his name.
“To my dear fans, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name,” he wrote in a statement to fans as the investigation came to light.
“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,” he continued. “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 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”.
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