08 March 2024 , 09:43
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Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has taken to social media following rumours Amanda Abbington has dropped her case.
The professional dancer found himself at the centre of a Strictly scandal following the latest series of the show. His celebrity partner Amanda had demanded the BBC hand over footage from their rehearsals together from before she quit the show. Their sudden exit sparked speculation of a clash between the pair behind-the-scenes of the show.
Rumours only intensified when it was revealed Amanda was considering legal action and that she was diagnosed with PTSD. This week, reports suggested Amanda had dropped her complaint against the BBC. However, a spokesperson for the star has denied this. Giovanni has since taken to his social media, where he received huge support from his fans.
Posting on his Instagram, the professional dancer filmed a clip of himself on stage in Cork, Ireland. He jokingly said: "As you can expect, like every other night, nobody came to watch the show." He then turned around as the stage lights came on to reveal a sold-out audience cheering him on.
He then said: "Cork, what would you like to say? Thank you, thank you, thank you. We love you." Giovanni is currently on his Let Me Entertain You tour around the UK and Ireland. In response to the latest report stating the BBC "matter is now closed", Amanda's spokesperson rubbished the claim - telling the Mirror: "there is no truth to this story" and that there is "nothing more to elaborate on."
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Giovanni shared a clip from on stage in Cork (Instagram)
Amanda had issued a complaint to the BBC following her appearance on the show (PA)The Mirror also contacted the BBC - who declined the opportunity to comment. Back in January, a source told the Mirror that the BBC were surprised by Amanda’s complaints about her dance partner. The source said at the time that bosses at the corporation felt complaints against Giovanni were “excessive”.
A BBC spokesman said at the time: “The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows. Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly. Strictly has a proud track record as a joyful, positive experience where robust support and assistance is always made available at every stage of the production.”
Amanda opened up on her time on the show, revealing she was diagnosed with PTSD. She told The Sun: “I was diagnosed with mild PTSD after Strictly for several reasons and I told a few people about that, in the utmost confidence, among other things that were happening in my life at the time both professionally and personally. I’m very sorry that people felt the need to send me death threats, threaten my children and bring up my past, healthy relationship with an ex-partner as an indicator of my current mental health. I wish those people well.”
Strictly judges have addressed the scandal as Shirley Ballas told Lorraine:"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..." She added that Strictly is a "tough show" where contestants "kinda know what they're getting into". Strictly star also Craig Revel Horwood shared how the professional dancers are the "backbone of the show".