Giovanni Pernice is facing another blow after reports a Strictly Come Dancing colleague had to seek therapy following Pernice’s treatment of them.
Pernice, 33, has been under fire ever since his latest celebrity partner in the BBC show, Amanda Abbington, made claims about his “nasty” behaviour.
The Sherlock star also went on to say she was diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) following her stint on the show alongside the professional dancer.
The actress left the show early and in the months since has made claims about Pernice’s behaviour, accusing him on taking a “militant” approach to training.
The Italian choreographer has denied the claims, which have reportedly been backed by some of his previous celebrity partners.
Taking to social media recently, Pernice stated: “Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.”
Abbington made claims about Pernice’s behaviour after taking part in last year’s show
BBC
The BBC recently launched an internal investigation following the claims.
Now, a professional dancer has reportedly claimed they needed therapy after working with Pernice, with a source telling The Sun: “One of the dancers on the show found it so traumatising that they sought professional help.
They explained the show is “unlike anything else on TV,” and went on to add: “But Giovanni’s demanding behaviour behind the scenes took it up a notch and caused significant emotional distress.
“They were so upset by what happened they needed counselling to recover from the toll it took.”
The Sherlock star accused Pernice of being ‘nasty’
ITV
Last week, a male celebrity reportedly joined the three previous partners who had spoken out against Pernice amid the ongoing bullying row.
“After three women came forward, a man has now joined their ranks,” a source told the same publication.
Abbington recently explained she asked for her training sessions with Pernice to be recorded, adding: “Giovanni is nasty.
“He was awful to a few of us, a group of us.” Speaking about the backlash she has faced since speaking out, she continued: “Giovanni’s fans have started trolling me now. I have had to come off social media and I’m getting death threats.”
Since Abbington’s claims, more have reportedly spoken out against Pernice
BBC
In a recent statement, Pernice told followers of his Instagram account: “To my dear fans, 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!”