Strictly Come Dancing bosses have launched an investigation into Giovanni Pernice following accusations made about his behaviour by former contestants, according to reports.
It comes after rumours started swirling that the much-loved Italian pro, 33, had departed from the series and would not be returning later this year.
According to The Sun, the BBC began an internal probe after three ex contestants instructed lawyers.
The Corporation is now ‘evidence gathering’ in the wake of the allegations about his alleged behaviour in training.
It was previously claimed that Giovanni – who joined Strictly in 2015 and won with Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021 – was a ‘taskmaster’ in rehearsals and made celeb partners cry.
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While these three contestants have not been named, they are said to be of a high profile.
One of whom is reportedly Amanda Abbington, who famously quit Strictly last year.
A spokesperson for top legal firm Carter Ruck said: ‘There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering.
‘As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage.’
A source added: ‘These are troubled times for the BBC – this is a nightmare situation, frankly.’
They said that ‘rumblings have been going on for months about allegations surrounding his behaviour but they steadfastly declined to launch any kind of investigation.’
‘It was only when three contestants, all allegedly deeply traumatised and upset by some of his training methods and behaviour, complained that any action was taken.’
The insider also described the three celebs coming forward as ‘incredibly brave’ for ‘sticking their necks above the parapet.’
‘They’ve had a lot of grief online from Strictly and Gio fans, and to say nothing would have been the easiest route.’
The reports come after the BBC released a statement in response to Giovanni ‘quitting’ Strictly.
While Giovanni’s exit has not been officially confirmed at the time of writing, a spokesperson for the BBC refused to deny the claims.
Instead, when approached by Metro.co.uk, they said: ‘The professional dancers for 2024 will be announced in due course.’
Initially, The Sun reported that Giovanni has told friends he is ‘seeking a fresh start’.
A source said: ‘Gio feels the scrutiny on him has become too much, and now is the time to make a fresh start.
‘He wants to focus on other TV projects and feels he’s achieved all he can on Strictly, having won the trophy back in 2021 and reaching the final an unprecedented four times.
‘He remains adamant he’s done nothing wrong other than being a hard taskmaster, but knows his style of training isn’t to everyone’s liking — especially in this day and age.’
The insider added: ‘He has a lot of other exciting projects in the pipeline right now, and he’s just super-excited to get cracking on them. This, now, is his priority.’
The BBC declined to comment further.
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