Strictly fans spot secret ‘clue’ that revealed Giovanni Pernice ‘feud’ months ago – but nobody noticed
STRICTLY Come Dancing fans think they have spotted a secret ‘clue’ which alluded to Giovanni Pernice being locked in a feud with his co-stars months ago.
The dancer quit the BBC talent contest last week amid a number of allegations against him from former celebrity partners which are now being investigated by the BBC.
The Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer denied the claims in a statement released on Instagram, stating that he “rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and looked forward to clearing his name”.
None of Giovanni’s former co-stars and Strictly pals have spoken out for the star amid rumours of tension.
Yesterday, show stars including Dianne Buswell, Carlos Gu and Karen Hauer opted to ignore the show’s drama as they failed to speak out in support of Gio.
Now, one eagle-eyed fan has pointed out how evidence of a feud between the former colleagues could have been bubbling for months.
Commenting under his latest Instagram post in which he rejected any claims of wrongdoing, one of his followers wrote: “If you check Gio’s past posts, the pros never likes his posts.”
It appears as though many of the current Strictly pros had failed to directly engage with Gio on social media over the past few months.
Moreover, some fans have suggested that the lack of public support could be down to the BBC’s tight impartiality rules.
Writing on Reddit, one said: “I could be wrong, but maybe the other pros and judges are not allowed to comment/like because as BBC employees, they have to be seen to be impartial.”
Another said: “I suspect everyone has been told not to comment to try and stop the story.”
Three of Gio’s former celebrity partners – including Laura Whitmore and Amanda Abbington – have come forward to make formal complaints about the Italian dancer, claiming they were left “traumatised” by the experience of working with him.
It’s since been claimed others may join them as the investigation continues, with the third partner who’s come forward not named.
Gio quit the upcoming series of Strictly ahead of the damning claims made against him.
In his statement on social media, he wrote: “To my dear fans, 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,” he continued. “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. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!”
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 flees 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”.