Amanda Abbington calls Giovanni Pernice ‘nasty’ as she breaks silence on Strictly Come Dancing feud-Josie Copson-Entertainment – Metro

Amanda Abbington has spoken about her time on Strictly with Giovanni Pernice (Picture: BBC)

Amanda Abbington has spoken for the first time about her experience on Strictly Come Dancing with Giovanni Pernice.

The Sherlock actress was partnered with the professional dancer on the most recent series of the BBC show and unexpectedly left after just five weeks.

There have since been reports that Amanda’s departure was due to a behind-the-scenes feud and it was later said she was seeking legal advice.

Giovanni, 33, has defended himself on social media, saying he ‘rejects any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name’.

Following claims that Giovanni requested training was recorded after he grew ‘concerned’ about her behaviour, Amanda, 52, has responded.

‘I asked for them to be recorded, it was me. Giovanni is nasty. He was awful to a few of us, a group of us,’ she told Daily Mail+.

Amanda left the competition early (Picture: PA)

‘You don’t understand how awful this all is. Giovanni’s fans have started trolling me now. I have had to come off social media and I’m getting death threats.’

Amanda also claimed she complained to BBC producers early into the series, and said she suffered post-traumatic stress disorder after working with Giovanni.

There are reports the BBC has launched an investigation following accusations made about his behaviour. They reportedly began an internal probe and are ‘evidence gathering’ after three former contestants, who’ve not been named, instructed lawyers.

Earlier this week, the BBC made a rare comment, saying: ‘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. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.’

BBC put out a rare statement(Picture: Ray Burniston/BBC/PA)

The spokesperson continued to Metro.co.uk: ‘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.

‘Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned. We will not be commenting further.’

In a statement posted on Instagram last week, Giovanni, who won the 2021 series with Rose Ayling-Ellis, wrote: ‘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.

Giovanni said he ‘looked forward to clearing my name’ (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

‘Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.’

He continued: ‘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! Giovanni,’ he concluded.

Giovanni’s future on the show is yet to be confirmed.

BBC did not wish to comment when contacted by Metro.co.uk. Representatives for Giovanni were contacted.

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