Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood makes thoughts on Giovanni Pernice drama clear

19 January 2024 , 11:58

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Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood has weighed in on the Giovanni and Amanda drama

Craig Revel Horwood has appeared to have weighed in on the drama surrounding Giovanni Pernice.

The Strictly Come Dancing professional hit the headlines after his 2023 celebrity partner Amanda Abbington sought legal advice following their time on the show. It has been reported the Sherlock actress was "demanding" footage of their rehearsals after being diagnosed with PTSD.

Amanda has said she has received "death threats" since speaking out about the rumoured feud, while the BBC has reportedly decided not to investigate Giovanni. The professional dancer has been supported by Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas as well as judge Motsi Mabuse. He has now recieved the backing of Craig Revel Horwood.

Giovanni and Amanda are said to have clashed during their time together (PA)

Judge Craig has made his thoughts on the feud clear (Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

Speaking to The Sun, the Strictly star shared how the professional dancers are the "backbone of the show". He said: “The pros not only have to be creative and be able to be good choreographers, they also have to be psychiatrists, doctors, they have to be nurses, they have to be welfare guidance people. It’s not just teaching dance.”

Speaking on Lorraine earlier this week, Shirley said: "I have known Giovanni for many, many years and he is an absolutely splendid teacher. My only ever experience with him is that of an absolute gentleman. He serves the show well and gives 100 percent, but you know..." Lorraine added: "Sometimes partnerships just don't work, we see that everywhere, on TV, everywhere."

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Shirley then interjected: "But you know all these shows, Strictly, they're tough shows. So when you sign up for a show like that you kinda know what you are getting into, it's been on the screen for 20 odd years, it's quite difficult to do the show."

Giovanni has also spoke out to thank fans for their support. He wrote on social media: “I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has sent messages of support over the last week — I really truly appreciate it — thank you thank you thank you.” The BBC has insisted there will be no investigation into his conduct. A spokesman said: “There is a constant dialogue between the senior production team and contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly.”

Amanda quit the BBC show after five weeks last October citing "personal issues" amid speculation that the pair had fallen out. It has reportedly taken months for her to recover from her Strictly experience and it is believed she has needed therapy following the "behaviour she was exposed to."

A source close to the actress told The Sun: "There is a feeling that the recordings will lift the lid on what really goes on behind the scenes on Strictly. Things in rehearsals can become very tense." They added that Giovanni could be "incredibly full-on" as he is a "perfectionist".

Strictly bosses say they never received any formal complaint about Giovanni 's training methods and are baffled by Amanda's claim. Sources on the show accept that while Giovanni is a perfectionist and there are occasional “moans” about his regime, the professional's conduct has never crossed the line to warrant any investigation.

Mia O'Hare