Strictly Come Dancing drama continues as BBC bosses 'trawl 9yrs of Giovanni Pernice training footage'
Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice is at the centre of a storm as BBC bosses are reported to be sifting through hundreds of hours of training footage following allegations against the dancer.
The Sun reports that producers have been instructed to review extensive footage from the dance rehearsals amid claims surrounding Giovanni's teaching methods.
OK! reached out to BBC but they declined to comment.
Accusations of "abuse" have surfaced, questioning Giovanni's approach with his celebrity partners on the show, including his 2023 partner, actress Amanda Abbington. It has been reported that Giovanni has left Strictly, although the pro dancer has strongly refuted any accusations of misconduct.
An internal memo leaked without Giovanni's name listed among the professional dancers for the current year, sparking rumours about his potential exit. Allegedly, he might face legal challenges from three former Strictly partners over these claims, while the BBC is said to have initiated an investigation into the matter.
Over the weekend, Giovanni took to Instagram to address the situation, firmly denying any "abusive or threatening behaviour". His statement read: "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. 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!"
Meanwhile, it's reported that the BBC is in the process of "evidence gathering", while rumours suggest "at least one or two more celebrities" have been in touch with legal representatives.
It's believed the unnamed celebrity women, who have all danced with Giovanni, could join three existing claimants already taking action.
This week, a close family friend of Giovanni defended the professional dancer, stating that his family are fully behind him and "will not have a bad word said about him".
Speaking to MailOnline, they shared: "They are the typical Italian family and stick together through thick and thin, they are his biggest fans and they will not have a bad word said about him."
