Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on Abbington row as he 'thanks' former Strictly partner for support

Giovanni Pernice breaks silence on Abbington row as he 'thanks' former Strictly partner for support

WATCH NOW: Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington awkwardly respond to 'rumours' probe in final joint interview

BBC
Alex Davies

By Alex Davies


Published: 09/01/2024

- 09:03

Updated: 09/01/2024

- 14:29

Former BBC Strictly star Debbie McGee has thrown her support behind Giovanni

Giovanni Pernice has returned to social media amid reports Amanda Abbington is "demanding" footage from their rehearsals for last year's Strictly Come Dancing.

Abbington is reportedly seeking legal advice about her time on the BBC dance contest after Pernice's training methods left her with PTSD, it's been claimed.


It's been reported that the Beeb won't be investigating Pernice following the reports and the BBC declined to comment when contacted by GB News.

Abbington didn't mention Pernice in her exit statement when she initially left Strictly - instead, she cited "personal reasons" for her departure.

In the days since the reports of Abbington's demands emerged, one of Pernice's former Strictly partners has spoken out in support of the Italian dancer.

Debbie McGee, who reached the final with Pernice in 2017, took to social media with a defiant post backing her former partner.

Amanda Abbington had been partnered with Giovanni Pernice on StrictlyAmanda Abbington had been partnered with Giovanni Pernice during her time on Strictly BBC

On both X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram, McGee shared a smiley snap alongside Pernice.

"Happy memories," McGee began to her 22.6k Instagram followers. "Giovanni and I had the best of times on Strictly."

The gesture clearly meant a lot to Pernice who was quick to show his gratitude for the public show of support.

He penned in response to his former Strictly partner: "Love you … thank you," followed by a series of love heart emojis.

McGee was soon inundated with other thankful comments from Pernice's fans, including one Instagram user who penned: "Thank you for standing up Debbie. So many people love you for this."

"Well done Debbie," a second weighed in. "Thank you for doing this for GIO he doesn't deserve this hope he knows how much his fans are behind him such a lovely man. You & GIO were a brilliant partnership always said you should have won."

And a third echoed: "Keep your head up high Giovanni.. and thank you for doing this Debbie."

Abbington hasn't taken to social media to address the reports. GB News has contacted Abbington's representatives.

Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington

Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington left Strictly just a few weeks in

GETTY

While the BBC declined to comment on a possible investigation, a BBC spokesperson did tell OK! on Monday: "The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows.

"Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly."

The spokesperson also said Strictly has a "proud track record as a joyful" experience where "robust support" is always made available.

GB News has contacted the BBC.

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