Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice’s upcoming tour date scrapped as star vows to fight to clear name amid BBC investigation
GIOVANNI Pernice has faced a fresh blow after one of his and Anton Du Beke’s upcoming tour dates was scrapped.
The 33-year-old Strictly Come Dancing professional has vowed to clear his name after the BBC launched an investigation into his conduct following complaints from his former show partners.
Giovanni and Strictly judge Anton, 57, are currently on their Together tour but confirmed that their Cardiff date has been cancelled following an issue with the venue.
Fans who were due to attend the show at St David’s Hall will be issued refunds.
Under-fire Gio this month quit Strictly amid the damning claims made against him – but now plans to fight back and has hired top lawyers Schillings to help.
The claims against him are the biggest scandal to rock Strictly in its 20-year history.
At least three women – Amanda Abbington, Laura Whitmore and one, as yet, unnamed partner – have employed Carter Ruck to make their case against Gio heard.
Sherlock actress Amanda, who quit last year’s series early, said she had mild PTSD from working with him on the show.
Earlier this week Giovanni staunchly defended himself following the news of the complaints against him on Strictly.
In a statement, which he posted on Instagram, Giovanni said: “To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.
“Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.
“Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.”
In a further blow The Sun revealed yesterday his Adventures With series – also with Anton – has been axed.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.