Peter Andre breaks silence on Strictly scandal saying ‘this shouldn’t be happening behind closed doors’
PETER Andre has broken his silence on the Strictly scandal as the show’s duty of care is placed into the spotlight.
The beloved BBC dancing series is in crisis as Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima are investigated for their conduct on the show.
The Sun on Sunday recently revealed Graziano was axed from Strictly amid claims he hit, kicked and spat at Zara McDermott last year.
Giovanni, 33, is currently under investigation by the BBC over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners.
Strictly have confirmed a more robust duty of care policy following the claims as more stars speak out about their experiences in the ballroom.
And now Peter Andre has opened up on his time on the show, back in 2015.
Writing in his OK! column, the 51-year-old said: “I’ve been reading a lot about what’s going on with Strictly at the moment but I can really only comment about my own experience on the show.
“I was surrounded by a great bunch of people. We don’t know what is true but accusations are still only accusations until they’re proven.
“On the other hand, things like this just shouldn’t be happening behind closed doors. It’s going to be a difficult time for Strictly and for all those involved.
“The show could be in the spotlight for a different reason this year.”
Rehearsals for the Strictly – which ordinarily kicks off in September – are now underway, giving fans hope things are back on track after a tumultuous few weeks.
Amanda Abbington told The Sun of what she deemed to be her “cruel and abusive” partner Giovanni.
She previously complained to the BBC that she endured five weeks of inappropriate behaviour on the last series, before pulling out and being diagnosed with PTSD.
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”.