The BBC investigation into Giovanni Pernice's alleged behaviour has reportedly become "a big headache" for bosses.
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni has been embroiled in controversy for months due to allegations about his behaviour during his last stint on the BBC dance competition - allegations he has strongly denied. It was confirmed last month that Giovanni would not be part of the 2024 series.
The BBC was said to have launched an internal investigation after receiving complaints from his previous celebrity dance partners on the show. It has since been claimed BBC bosses have extended the inquiry ahead of the launch of its 20th anniversary series. A source said: "This investigation is no longer just solely about Giovanni but other, more wider issues."
"Amanda's complaints have started something massive, it has opened the door for others to come forward about things they haven't been happy with," they claimed to Daily Mail. "Having the Giovanni complaint has been a big enough issue, but now it looks like there is more to be scrutinised and looked into."
The source added it has "all a big headache for the BBC" ahead of the new series. A BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: "We recently issued a statement urging the media not to indulge in speculation about complaints related to a high profile show and that position remains the same."
Giovanni was paired with actress Amanda Abbington on the 2023 series of Strictly, who quit the show early and later claimed to have suffered from a mild form of PTSD. The dancer previously shared a statement to his fans as he denied the allegations.
Last month, Giovanni shared another statement with his followers as he wrote: "To my fans and followers, Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media. As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.
"I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth. As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth. I am so happy to be back on tour. Thank you all for your continued support – you messages and love mean so very much to me. I will hopefully see many of you very soon and I look forward to clearing my name. With love, Giovanni."
It was later confirmed Giovanni would not be returning to the hit dance show. In a massive show of support, Strictly judges Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse have agreed to take part in Giovanni's dance classes. They follow in the footsteps of Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke, who have also strut their stuff with the Italian.
A source told the Mirror: “Everyone is rallying around Giovanni and feel very strongly he has been hung out to dry somewhat.” Giovanni’s dance account Ballando Dance said: “Well … it wouldn’t be fair to only have 2 of the judges would it. So excited to announce that none other than Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse will be joining us for an afternoon of dance fun on the 29th September… what dances do you think they’ll be doing?”
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