GB News host Bev Turner says she is expecting “more to come” from a Strictly Come Dancing scandal that has seen the axing of professional dancer Giovanni Pernice.
The 33-year-old has denied “any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour” in his teaching methods.
It comes after Sherlock star Amanda Abbington walked away from the series early after being partnered with Pernice and claimed to have been diagnosed with PTSD due to his behaviour.
Bev said on GB News that Abbington is “no snowflake” as she appeared at odds with her co-host, Andrew Pierce, who suggested Pernice was simply displaying his will to win.
Bev Turner says there is 'more to come' from the Giovanni Pernice row
PA / GB NEWS
“She is no snowflake, the woman who has made this accusation”, said Bev.
“She is one of these actresses who you may not know her name, but you will definitely know her face.
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“Her partner that she adores and lives with was a stuntman who was in a wheelchair. She is a tough cookie.
“For her to make this allegation, maybe we need to take it seriously. The BBC are taking it seriously.
“There is an official investigation. She has made the allegation and two others have. It’s that fine line where, at what point is robust coaching in that room crossing the line?”
Andrew waded in to suggest Pernice, who has appeared on the BBC dancing contest since 2015, “wants to win” and will likely be tough on anyone who he feels are “slacking”.
Bev Turner and Andrew Pierce appeared to be at odds on the matter
GB NEWS
Amanda Abbington had danced with Giovanni Pernice in StrictlyBBC“There will be more to come from this”, Bev added.
In May, Pernice wrote that “you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week” and the public has seen him “passionate and competitive” on Strictly.
“Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name,” he also said.
Pernice added: “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.”
A statement from law firm 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.”
