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3 months ago
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Giovanni Pernice will not be taking to the dance floor on Strictly Come Dancing this year.
On Monday, the BBC confirmed the lineup of professional dancers for the 2024 season and Pernice was conspicuous by his absence.
The timing of the BBC’s decision comes a amid a complaint from Pernice’s 2023 partner, the Sherlock star Amanda Abbington. The BBC declined to comment.
The actress has reportedly engaged London law firm Carter-Ruck to pursue a grievence with the BBC about Pernice’s teaching methods. Pernice has strongly denied wrongdoing.
In an interview with The Mail On Sunday, Abbington said Pernice was “nasty” and was “awful to a few of us.” Abbington added that she had raised concerns with the BBC.
Pernice issued a statement on Instagram last month vowing to clear his name. The professional dancer said: “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.”
Deadline has contacted his manager for comment on the BBC’s decision to drop him from the 2024 season.
The BBC took the unusual step of commenting on the allegations last month, stating: “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. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process. 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.”
