Strictly star defies BBC’s Giovanni Pernice ban and shows her support for under fire dancer
A STRICTLY star has broken ranks and shown her support for Giovanni Pernice amid his departure from the show.
Lauren Oakley took to social media to show her support for the under fire dancer.
Ballroom star Lauren – who is a pro dancer on Strictly – attended Giovanni’s new show with Anton Du Beke.
The 33-year-old posted from the audience of their live show which is currently on the road across the UK.
Lauren’s support for Giovanni comes after The Sun revealed Amanda Abbington has called in police after being bombarded with death threats from trolls.
The actress, 50, has received dozens of horrific messages a day from fans of her ex-dance partner Giovanni, 33, who she accuses of bullying behaviour.
The Sherlock star has been in touch with local police officers to take measures to protect herself and her family.
Meanwhile, last week Giovanni released a statement vowing to clear his name after it was previously revealed a male star had come forward after three female celebs including Amanda and Laura Whitmore complained to the Beeb.
The dancer said: “As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.
“The latest accusations are simply false.
“I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.
“As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.”
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”.