Giovanni Pernice denies accusations of abusive behaviour after Amanda Abbington claimed dancer was ‘cruel and mean’ on Strictly Come Dancing [Video]

By Laura Parkin For Mailonline and Katie Hind Consultant Editor Showbusiness 16:33 EDT 20 Jul 2024, updated 19:00 EDT 20 Jul 2024

Giovanni Pernice has denied accusations of abusive behaviour after Amanda Abbington claimed he was ‘cruel and mean’ during her Strictly Come Dancing stint. 

In her first interview since quitting the BBC show in October, the actress, 50, said the professional’s behaviour was ‘unnecessary.’

Amanda abruptly left the BBC show citing ‘personal issues’ and hasn’t been seen on screen since, even quitting social media last month in the wake of her former dance partner’s sacking.

Giovanni, 33, was suspended while a BBC probe is underway over allegations made by Amanda and two other former celebrity partners. 

He has now denied all accusations of abusive or threatening behaviour made by Amanda in her interview and has cooperated with the BBC.