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Strictly pro Giovanni Pernice probed over serious complaints by 3 ‘traumatised’ contestants as BBC ‘gathers evidence’
Giovanni this week told pals he was quitting the dance show
THE BBC has launched an internal investigation into Strictly star Giovanni Pernice after three former contestants instructed lawyers.
The Corporation is now "evidence gathering" in the wake of the damning allegations.
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News of the formal complaints - logged separately but by the same top legal firm, Carter Ruck - come after The Sun revealed the Sicilian dancer had quit the hit dance competition.
Whilst the three complainants have not been named, they are understood to be Amanda Abbington and two other high profile stars.
A spokeswoman, from £700 an hour Carter Ruck, said: “There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering.
"As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage”.
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The probe, for serious workplace misconduct, is likely to take in rehearsal footage recorded between Amanda and Gio, 33.
A source said: "These are troubled times for the BBC - this is a nightmare situation, frankly.
"Rumblings have been going on for months about allegations surrounding his behaviour but they steadfastly declined to launch any kind of investigation.
"It was only when three contestants, all allegedly deeply traumatised and upset by some of his training methods and behaviour, complained that any action was taken."
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Giovanni is currently holidaying abroad whilst the undertakings are ongoing.
It comes amid a flurry of concerns regarding the pro's "taskmaster" antics on set where he has made previous celebs including and Amanda cry.
Strictly Come Dancing star leaves fans devastated as he quits hit show after nine years
However, a source added: "These complainants are being incredibly brave, sticking their necks above the parapet.
"They've had a lot of grief online from Strictly and Gio fans, and to say nothing would have been the easiest route.
Who is Giovanni Pernice?
GIOVANNI Pernice was a Strictly Come Dancing professional.
But just days ago The Sun exclusively revealed that the professional dancer officially quit the show.
Born on September 5, 1990, Giovanni is a dancer from Sicily.
Gio joined Strictly in 2015 and has become a fan favourite.
He reached the final in his first year with actress Georgia May Foote before triumphing in 2021 with EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis.
Specialising in Latin style, Giovanni has won a number of competitions, most notably, the Italian Open Championship in 2012.
The talented dancer is also a Guinness World Record holder for Jive kicks and flicks, as well as Charleston swivels.
"They hope that by going legal, they may empower others to come forward with their stories."
The BBC said “no decision had been made” on the recommission of Giovanni and Anton’s travel show.
The BBC declined to comment on the internal investigation or Giovanni’s own evidence.
Gio joined the show in 2015 and has become a fan favourite — reaching the final in his first year with actress Georgia May Foote, and triumphing in 2021 with EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis.
Inside Amanda Abbington's time on Strictly
AMANDA Abbington was partnered with Giovanni for the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
However, just weeks into the series the actress announced she had quit the show.
Before she left Strictly, The Sun revealed how Amanda and Giovanni were feuding behind the scenes.
Amanda further fuelled rumours by sharing a cryptic post about bad behaviour on her Instagram account.
The star reposted a quote which read: "Shoutout to people whose kindness isn't a strategy but a way of life."
Amanda also snubbed Giovanni when she broke her silence following her departure.
She told fans: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue.
"It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside.
"I want to thank the incredible production team and everyone on Strictly who looked after me and who are so kind and caring.
"It's a wonderful bunch of people and I'll miss all of them. I'm so sad that I am unable to go any further.
"Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you. Xxx"
In January 2024, it emerged that Amanda allegedly told pals that her tense relationship with Giovanni during her time on Strictly had left her with post-traumatic stress disorder.
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