The BBC has confirmed Giovanni Pernice will not return for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Following reports the 33-year-old had quit the show after eight years, the dancer wasn’t included in the list of professional partners for the 2024 series.
Giovanni has come under fire in recent months for his “militant approach to training” after his dance partner Amanda Abbington left the show abruptly last year.
However, Giovanni has denied any suggestion that he displayed “abusive or threatening behaviour” while working as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.
Amid reports a legal firm had contacted the BBC earlier this year regarding “numerous serious complaints” about his alleged behaviour, the 33-year-old vowed to clear his name.
In a statement shared on Instagram, the Italian dancer wrote: “To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.”
“Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.”
He continued: “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 striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be.
“This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni.”
Giovanni spoke out after law firm Carter-Ruck told the PA news agency that the BBC were gathering evidence regarding the claims.
“There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering,” they said in a statement.
“As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage.”
Last month, a BBC spokesperson said: “It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals. Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.”
“Recently, we have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.”
They continued: “If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken.”
“This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.”
“Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned. We will not be commenting further.”
Last month, it was reported that Giovanni had quit Strictly Come Dancing after eight years on the show, following a turbulent few months.
According to The Sun, reports of his alleged clashes with his former partners became “too much” for the 33-year-old.
A source said: “Gio feels the scrutiny on him has become too much and now is the time to make a fresh start. He wants to focus on other TV projects, and feels he’s achieved all he can on Strictly, having won the trophy back in 2021 and reaching the final an unprecedented four times.
“He remains adamant he’s done nothing wrong other than being a hard taskmaster, but knows his style of training isn’t to everyone’s liking – especially in this day and age.”
Giovanni has been at the centre of controversy since his dance partner Amanda Abbington dramatically quit the competition last year due to “personal reasons”.
It later emerged the actress struggled with his “militant approach to training” and she was subsequently diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Amanda then met with two of Giovanni’s former partners, Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore, in February to discuss their difficult experiences working with him.
A source close to the trio told the Daily Mail: “They are very unhappy with the way the BBC are handling this.”
“It’s one thing saying they are standing by him, but they feel as if Giovanni is being promoted and pushed centre stage in a bid to make them go away and keep quiet. It’s a kick in the teeth.”
“One of the reasons they wanted to meet up was to try and work on a way forward because they have no intention of just backing down and letting this just fade away,” the source explained.
“All three have been impacted in different ways by what happened and they’ve agreed to speak again about how best they can get something done about it because they are genuinely worried about what went on and the fact someone else could end up experiencing what they went through.”
“But right now there’s a feeling that Gio is pretty much untouchable – especially given he is so close to Anton who thinks the world of him and can’t believe the stuff he’s been hearing claimed about his mate.”
Earlier this year, Giovanni broke his silence on working with Amanda, following months of speculation surrounding their partnership on the show.
He said: “It’s a shame because, in my opinion, she could have gone all the way. I am a perfectionist, 100 per cent, but it comes from a perspective of caring.
“I think all of the professional dancers are in the same place. If you’re a professional dancer on one of these shows, you have to get these people looking the best they can on Saturday night.”
