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Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on BBC investigation in new statement amid strict exit

Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on BBC investigation in new statement amid strict exit

Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence following the announcement that he will not be part of the professional line-up for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. It comes after the 33-year-old dancer was the subject of a BBC investigation following allegations of “abusive or threatening behavior” towards his celebrity partners during the show.

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, June 15, Giovanni penned a lengthy statement in which he said he looked forward to “establishing the truth.” He said: “To my fans and followers, 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.

Giovanni PerniceGiovanni Pernice

Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence following the announcement that he will not be part of the professional line-up for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing – Credit: WireImage

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

“I’m so happy to be back on tour. Thank you everyone for your continued support – your messages and love mean so much to me. I hope to see you again very soon and I can’t wait to clear my name.

“With love, Giovanni.”

The professional dancer has been flooded with support from celebrity pals under the Social Medal, including Blue’s Duncan James who wrote: “Stay strong my friend. The truth always comes out eventually. Sending you my love, brother. “

Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni PerniceRose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice

Giovanni has been a permanent dancer on Strictly for years and even won the show with Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021 – Credit: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images

Gillian McKeith said: “Stay strong. Your dedication and incredible talent will shine brighter and brighter.” Fans also offered their support, with one commenting: “Gio, your name is clear when it comes to your fans. A lion should never worry about the opinion of a sheep. Reassure -you, incredible human.”

“I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Visé, you won’t be strictly there this year. I hope you come back next year! Stay strong,” another wrote.

The 33-year-old dancer has faced controversy in recent months after actress Amanda Abbington, who was his celebrity partner on Strictly Come Dancing last year, left the show early and later claimed she was suffering of PTSD. The BBC has reportedly launched an internal investigation after receiving complaints from his previous celebrity dance partners and Giovanni has denied any allegations of “abusive or threatening behavior”.

Amanda Abbington and Giovanni PerniceAmanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice

Amanda Abbington claimed she suffered from PTSD after her Strictly experience last year – Credit: PA

Earlier this year, Giovanni denied any allegations of “abusive or threatening behavior” and vowed to “clear (his) name.” He said: “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 strived to help them become the best dancers they can be. It has always come from a place of love and a will to win – for me and my dance partners. Thank you all again for your love and support keep going!”