Male celebrity ‘complains about Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice’ after several women consider legal action-Pierra Willix-Entertainment – Metro

Giovanni Pernice is facing another complaint about his behaviour (Picture: Ken McKay/ ITV/ REX/ Shutterstock)

A male celebrity has ‘joined the group of female stars’ who have complained about Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice.

Last month it was reported that the BBC was launching an investigation into the professional dancer, 33, after accusations made about his behaviour by former contestants.

It followed reports that his former partners, believed to be Amanda Abbington, Laura Whitmore, and Ranvir Singh met to ‘compare notes’ about their experiences with him on the show.

Now a male star is said to have also ‘been in touch with the lawyers’ acting for the complainants.

‘After three women came forward, a man has now joined their ranks,’ a source has said.

‘He personally reached out to the women at the heart of this unfolding crisis, offering them his support and full backing.

He has appeared on Strictly Come Dancing since 2015 (Picture: BBC/Ray Burmiston)

‘He has also been in touch with Carter Ruck and told them what he knows and shared his experiences. These experiences were, at times, very tricky,’ they added when speaking to The Sun.

Giovanni, has defended himself on social media, saying he ‘rejects any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name’ and is said to have instructed lawyers to fight the claims.

His future on the show has yet to be confirmed, though recent reports suggested he has departed from the series and would not be returning later this year.

Giovanni has vehemently denied the accusations around his behaviour while on the BBC series (Picture: PA)

Claims over his conduct on Strictly first emerged when there were rumours of a behind-the-scenes feud between him and Sherlock actress Amanda, after she quit the show last year after five weeks and was later said to be seeking legal advice.

Last week the BBC also appeared to address the ongoing speculation following reports it had also launched an internal investigation.

‘It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals,’ its statement began.

‘Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.

He was partnered with Amanda Abbington last season (Picture: BBC)

‘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.’

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.’

Metro.co.uk has contacted Carter Ruck and representatives for Giovanni Pernice for comment.

Strictly Come Dancing is expected to return to the BBC later this year.

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