Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on strict exit

Giovanni Pernice has spoken out after his Strictly Come Dancing exit.

In an Instagram post, he called the accusations against him “simply false” and told fans he looked forward to “clearing my name.”

Giovanni wrote: “Every week there are totally false stories about me in the media.

“As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behavior. The latest accusations are simply false.

“I am fully cooperating with the BBC’s ongoing investigation, which will determine the truth. As requested, I have remained silent, but I look forward to the conclusion of the investigation and finally clearing my name and establishing the truth.

“I’m so happy to be back on tour. Thank you all for your continued support – your messages and love mean so much to me. I hope to see many of you very soon and I look forward to clearing my name.

Professional dancer Giovanni is reportedly at the center of a BBC investigation following allegations of misconduct by his Strictly partner Amanda Abbington and two other women.

It was confirmed earlier this month that Giovanni had left the show’s team of professional dancers after nine years.

The BBC previously said: “It is a long-standing position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters relating to individuals. We also will not normally say whether we are investigating individual complaints.

The statement continued: “Recently, we have seen a number of media reports regarding a high-profile show. We urge people not to indulge in speculation. Everyone involved in a complaint has the right to confidentiality and a fair process.

The new series of Strictly Come Dancing will air on BBC One this autumn.