New twist in Strictly Giovanni Pernice scandal as BBC brings in ex-Met cops to interview complainants & gather evidence
TWO former detectives are part of the BBC’s probe into ex-Strictly pro Giovanni Pernice.
It is understood they have interviewed at least one female complainant.
Another two are due to be seen in the coming days as part of the ongoing investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour.
A source said: “The BBC is taking this extremely seriously.
“Two ex-Met cops are conducting all the interviews and have been tasked with gathering evidence — including texts and screenshots — which they will present to corporation executives.
“Giovanni has not yet been spoken to.”
Last month The Sun revealed the 33-year-old fan favourite was quitting.
Lawyers have also been employed by several celebrities to lodge grievances about their time on the show.
Actress Amanda Abbington, 50, said she was diagnosed with mild PTSD after dancing with the Italian.
He is on tour, and thanked the public for their “continued support”.
He said: “I’ve always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.
“I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.”
The BBC declined to comment.
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”.