Amanda Abbington has deleted her social media amid a BBC probe into claims made against Giovanni Pernice.
On Monday, the BBC confirmed that the professional dancer 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.
On the same day that the news about Giovanni’s future on Strictly was revealed, the actress deleted both her X and Instagram accounts.
A Strictly dancer has also claimed that they “needed therapy after starring on show with Giovanni.”
The Sun has reported that the unnamed dancer suffered “significant emotional distress” on the show.
A source told the publication: “One of the dancers on the show found it so traumatising that they sought professional help. The show is unlike anything else on TV. The pressure on those taking part is huge and shouldn’t be under-estimated.”
“But Giovanni’s demanding behaviour behind the scenes took it up a notch and caused significant emotional distress.”
“They were so upset by what happened they needed counselling to recover from the toll it took.”
In an attempt to clear his name, Giovanni posted a statement to Instagram: “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.”
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“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.”
