Andrew Pierce has suggested the claims surrounding Giovanni Pernice are “exaggerated”.
The Italian professional dancer has been left off the Strictly Come Dancing 2024 bill amid allegations about his teaching methods which he rejects.
Speaking on GB News, Andrew questioned whether robust teaching methods and Pernice’s determination to win the competition were mistakenly judged as crossing the line.
“Is post traumatic stress really what they’re saying?”, he asked.
Andrew Pierce feels the claims surrounding Pernice are 'exaggerated'
PA / GB NEWS
“Isn’t that what soldiers on the frontline endure?
“He’s a tough taskmaster. Post traumatic stress, is this not a little over exaggerated?”
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Showbiz journalist Stephanie Takyi waded in to comment that we are living in a time where people are “sensitive” about their mental health, and strict teaching methods are always likely to be thrown into question.
Andrew responded saying those people “shouldn’t go on a reality TV show” if they feel that way.
“You have to earn your money when you’re doing these rehearsals”, Takyi added.
“There is a backlash against Strictly where a lot of these contestants, after taking the paycheque are saying it was ‘quite difficult’, people are so sensitive that they’re always going to find something damaging about these reality shows.”
Pernice will not return to Strictly Come DancingGettySicily-born Pernice, a previous winner of the Italian Championships dance competition, was last paired with Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, who withdrew from the competition in 2023 citing “personal reasons”.
The show will be celebrating its 20th birthday and Takyi said it will come as a great disappointment to fans and dancers alike that Pernice will not be present.
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.
Andrew Pierce spoke to Bev Turner and Stephanie Takyi
GB NEWS
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.”