Giovanni Pernice thanks fans for ‘unwavering support’ in Strictly Come Dancing investigation

Giovanni Pernice showed his gratitude to the fans who supported him during the Come and dance if necessary scandal.

The professional dancer, 34, has been embroiled in behind-the-scenes controversy since Amanda Abbington complained to the BBC about his “inappropriate” conduct and behaviour while partnering her on the 2023 dance competition. He denies any wrongdoing.

While it was reported that the investigation had concluded last month, with Pernice set to discover the results, it was later revealed that Sherlock Star Abbington has been ‘questioned a second time’ over her claims amid ‘new evidence’.

On the occasion of her 34th birthday, Pernice, who will not appear in the next series of Strictlyshared a post on social media thanking his loyal fans for showing their support as the BBC’s investigation continues.

He wrote on Instagram: “30+4 today. Thank you all so much for your messages, I appreciate your endless love and support.”

Looking ahead, Pernice added, “Better days ahead and exciting news to share with you very soon, love you all, Gio.”

Pernice’s message to his fans comes shortly after it was reported that the professional dancer had tried to call Abbington earlier this week.

A source said The sun“Giovanni tried calling Amanda a few weeks ago. No one knows why.”

“They haven’t spoken since she left the show, so for him to call out of the blue, especially with an investigation going on, is very strange. Amanda didn’t want to talk to him and blocked his number. She wants nothing to do with Giovanni.”

The source claimed Pernice tried to call Abbington only once. The Independent contacted Abbington and Pernice for comment.

Abbington is believed to have spoken to BBC bosses again after alleging the dancer made sexual comments in the rehearsal room. The sunAs the BBC was about to conclude its investigation, Abbington shared texts that allegedly reveal Pernice “crossed the line of what is acceptable”.

Last month, in an interview with Krishnan Guru-Murthy for Channel 4 News, Abbington claimed that the show’s producers had installed cameras in his rehearsal room after he raised concerns about Pernice.

“Every Friday, after about five weeks, the producer would say to me, ‘We just reviewed the footage, we’re shocked and horrified, we’re so sorry.’ It was in front of me on Friday when we went to do the on-camera rehearsal,” she said.

“It’s out there. There’s evidence of what happened in that room and I’m not the one blocking it. I said everyone can see it, but he (Giovanni) doesn’t want anyone to see it, which is pretty telling if he’s got nothing to hide.”

Pernice has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In a statement responding to the Channel 4 interview, the dancer’s spokesperson said: “We are cooperating fully with the BBC’s review process. All parties have been asked to respect this process and not speak to the media until it is concluded. We will continue to respect the integrity of the investigation and believe this is the appropriate forum to consider all the evidence.”

“As part of the evidence-based review, the BBC has shared with us the allegations it has been able to substantiate. They are nothing like Amanda’s latest allegations, which were made to Channel 4. Giovanni denies any allegations of threatening or abusive behaviour and, having provided his evidence to the BBC, is confident that the review will prove this.”

Additional reporting by PA