Giovanni Pernice Attempts to Contact Amanda Abbington Amid Strictly Probe
- Giovanni Pernice has been suspended from Strictly Come Dancing amid allegations of misconduct from Amanda Abbington and others.
- Abbington withdrew from the competition after five weeks, citing distressing experiences during rehearsals and has since received death threats.
- The BBC is expanding its investigation to include broader issues within the show as it prepares for its 20th anniversary.
Giovanni Pernice, a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has been suspended amid an investigation into allegations of off-camera misconduct made by Amanda Abbington and two other former partners. Abbington, who was paired with Pernice in the 2023 series, withdrew from the competition just five weeks in, citing a distressing experience during rehearsals. She reported feeling overwhelmed, stating she would 'cry and vomit' after sessions with him. Following her withdrawal, Abbington has faced severe backlash, including death threats from fans of Pernice. A source revealed that Giovanni attempted to contact Amanda a few weeks ago, but she informed her team, who then relayed this information to BBC executives overseeing the inquiry. Since then, he has not reached out again. The BBC confirmed that multiple complaints have been lodged, prompting an extension of the investigation to include broader issues within the show, especially as it approaches its 20th anniversary. The situation has escalated, with other dancers, including Graziano Di Prima, facing similar allegations, leading to his dismissal from the show. The BBC is under pressure to address these serious claims while maintaining the integrity of the program, which has been celebrated for its glamorous image over the years. The unfolding scandal has raised questions about the treatment of contestants and the culture within the show. As the inquiry continues, the future of Giovanni Pernice on Strictly remains uncertain, and the producers are keen to resolve the matter swiftly to avoid further damage to the show's reputation. The investigation reflects a growing awareness of misconduct in entertainment, highlighting the need for accountability and support for those who come forward with their experiences.