Giovanni Pernice reveals fatigue after bullying scandal rocks BBC

In late 2023, Giovanni Pernice, a prominent professional dancer, faced significant scrutiny following allegations of bullying made by actress Amanda Abbington during their time on Strictly Come Dancing. The allegations prompted the BBC to launch a misconduct investigation into his conduct, which led to doubts about his future with the show. Giovanni, who is 34 years old and known for his captivating performances, expressed that he felt 'tired' after a tumultuous year and stated that he needed a break from the demanding environment of the program. He acknowledged the challenges he faced throughout this period and admitted the overall atmosphere was exhausting. Despite being cleared of most of the allegations against him, Giovanni reflected on his relationship with Amanda Abbington, stating he held no resentment and would prefer to discuss the matter peacefully over a 'nice cup of tea' if given the opportunity. He emphasized that he was unaware of Amanda's discomfort until the allegations became public, indicating a lack of communication during rehearsals that could have mitigated the situation. Giovanni affirmed the importance of speaking out about issues in the workplace and acknowledged Amanda's right to voice her concerns. A source from The Sun revealed that Giovanni's return to Strictly was highly unlikely, referencing the BBC's public apology to Amanda and suggesting that his time on the show had come to an end. However, Giovanni remained popular among fans of the series, leading to a complex situation where his past visibility conflicted with the current controversies. He maintained that he would approach Amanda with no ill will, highlighting the need to communicate openly and resolve conflicts constructively. As the discussion unfolded, Giovanni acknowledged the challenges posed by the current climate surrounding allegations of misconduct and bullying within the entertainment industry. Nevertheless, he expressed support for Amanda's decision to voice her feelings, as he believed that everyone should feel empowered to report grievances in a professional environment. Ultimately, Giovanni's statements on several media outlets suggest an understanding that the repercussions of such allegations can lead to long-lasting changes within individuals' careers and the overall culture of organizations like the BBC.