STRICTLY Come Dancing has yet to reach a verdict on their ongoing investigation into the alleged workplace misconduct of Giovanni Pernice.
Giovanni, who has been on the show for nine years, has become central to a series of official complaints made against him regarding his “military tactics” in the rehearsal room.
Yesterday, he was officially confirmed to be off the show’s line-up, with him missing from the annual professional cast announcement.
However, the investigation into his behaviour is still not finished, as the BBC try to get to the bottom of what happened.
“Giovanni’s case is very much ongoing,” a source told Daily Mail, adding the announcement was made after the contracts for this year’s pros were finalised.
“Giovanni’s absence has been known for some weeks, he won’t have anything to do with the 2024 season,” they added.
“But the investigation into his alleged wrongdoings will continue to develop alongside preparation for the upcoming series.”
Last month, it was announced that official complaints had been made against Giovanni by three of his nine former celebrity partners.
Among them was Amanda Abbington, who was paired with him for the 2023 series but dropped out on medical grounds in October.
She has since claimed she had mild PTSD from her time on the show.
The other celebrities involved have not been named, but is believed to include Laura Whitmore.
Last week, a male participant of the show also reportedly joined the group, claiming he needed months of therapy as a result of being on the show with Gio.
A Strictly spokesman said of the investigation: “If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken.
“This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.”
“Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned,” they added.
Giovanni has hired top legal firm Schillings to rebuke the claims and clear his name.
Gio has only made one official statement since the investigation launched.
It read: “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 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”.
