The BBC is set to “exonerate” Giovanni Pernice following allegations made against him by former Strictly partner Amanda Abbington, a report has claimed.
The hit dance show has been in turmoil for almost a year after 50-year-old Amanda and Giovanni, 33, abruptly exited the series last October.
While health issues were blamed at the time of the sudden exit, Amanda later alleged there had been inappropriate rehearsal practices being deployed by Giovanni – who has always denied any wrongdoing.
After Amanda spoke out about apparent mistreatment behind-the-scenes of the show, a number of other former contestants and professionals stepped forward to speak out against Giovanni’s work practices.
And, similarly, it was alleged that fellow dancer Graziano Di Prima had been abusive behind-the-scenes, allegedly spitting on and kicking his 2023 dance partner Zara McDermott.
Both Giovanni and Graziano have since exited Strictly and are battling to repair their careers and public image.
Now one report has suggested that Giovanni will be cleared of any wrongdoing in relation to his work with Amanda.
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Giovanni exited Strictly under a cloud of shame after starring on the show since 2015 ( Image: PA)
It was previously reported Amanda struggled to fight the BBC to force them to hand over evidence to help her claim
( Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
The Mail on Sunday has reported that the dancer will be cleared, with a source telling the publication: “The BBC wanted to exonerate Mr Pernice because nothing that Amanda said stuck. There was absolutely nothing there to get him on – and, from the messages they saw, the picture was quite the opposite. He had been very supportive of her.”
The report suggests Amanda herself is expecting to lose her claim. The source said: “Amanda had been telling her friends that she knew Giovanni not going to be found guilty. It was obviously a huge disappointment for her after investing so many months in her complaint.”
Elsewhere in the report it is suggested Giovanni supported Amanda during her time on the show. It is also suggested he sent her a message that contained video footage containing a “sexual theme” but this was dismissed as “banter”.
The report does, however, admit the BBC is in crisis over delivering the conclusion of the investigation as it suggests the corporation has not believed the word of a female celebrity.
The source says: “The thought of telling the world that they didn’t believe a woman would go against absolutely every bit of their DNA. Imagine having to imply that a woman is a fantasist. That is just so un-BBC. It is a nightmare, an utter mess.”
The Mirror has contacted representatives of the BBC and Ms Abbington for comment. Earlier this year, reports stated Amanda was fighting to obtain footage from her Strictly Come Dancing rehearsals which, it was claimed, would strengthen her case. It is unclear if the BBC ever shared this footage with her or if they ever plan to release the footage to the license fee paying public.
