BBC Strictly investigation 'no longer just about Giovanni Pernice' as probe delves into 'wider issues'

It's been reported the investigation has become "a big headache" for show bosses ahead of the show's 20th anniversary this year.

Pernice, 33, has been at the centre of a scandal for months following claims made against him by his Strictly partner from last year, Amanda Abbington.

The Sherlock star, 52, made claims about the choreographer being "nasty" and "militant" after she pulled out of the series early as rumours of a feud between the pair swirled.

Pernice has continued to deny accusations but it was confirmed by the BBC last month he won't be returning to the show.

The BBC launched a probe into the claims but a source has revealed it has now gone deeper than expected, which has become an issue for the broadcaster.

"This investigation is no longer just solely about Giovanni but other, more wider issues," they told the MailOnline.

The statement continued: "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.

"Having the Giovanni complaint has been a big enough issue, but now it looks like there is more to be scrutinised and looked into."

In the months following Abbington's claims, more accusations against Pernice have surfaced.

A professional dancer has reportedly claimed last month they needed therapy after working with Pernice, with a source telling The Sun: "One of the dancers on the show found it so traumatising that they sought professional help.

They explained the show is "unlike anything else on TV," and went on to add: "But Giovanni’s demanding behaviour behind the scenes took it up a notch and caused significant emotional distress.

"They were so upset by what happened they needed counselling to recover from the toll it took."

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It has been reported Pernice vowed he won't be "cancelled" and had hired London-based legal firm Schillings to help shut down the claims.

In a statement to MailOnline back in May, Schillings said: "Schillings is engaging with BBC studios to provide it with Giovanni's evidence to strongly rebut claims being made about him and confirm that Giovanni Is fully cooperating with that process.

"As with any reality TV show, when decisions are being made for entertainment reasons, the producers have a duty of care.

"Giovanni is fully committed to clearing his name and defending his rep against accusations against him."