Giovanni Pernice has vowed to clear his name as the BBC investigates complaints made by his former Strictly Come Dancing partner about his behaviour.
A group of celebrities who participated in a dance competition expressed concerns about the teaching methods and conduct of their former partner and professional instructor.
Pernice maintains that the accusations against him are “false” and said he would clear his name.
This comes after it was revealed he will not be taking part in 'Strictly 2024'.
The Italian dancer has been part of the BBC One show since 2015, when he reached the grand final alongside Coronation Street actress Georgia May Foote.
However, the BBC did not include him in their line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series following reports that the 33-year-old dancer would not be competing.
Lawyers for the 33-year-old dancer and a group of former partners have reportedly given evidence to the BBC, which is investigating the allegations against him.
Pernice commented on the controversy on social media, writing: “I have always denied any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.”
“We look forward to uncovering the truth.”
“I am cooperating fully with the BBC investigation to uncover the truth.”
“I am remaining silent as requested but look forward to the investigation being concluded so that my reputation can finally be vindicated and the truth can come out.”
His denial came following a filing by law firm Carter Luck, who are representing a group of his former dance partners, and after reports that his law firm Schillings had given evidence in his defence to the BBC.
There have been criticisms about the nature of his training methods and his attitude towards his dance partners.
The dancer previously said she is a “perfectionist” and will be getting her partners ready for Saturday night's show of Strictly whilst also “looking after” them.
He made these comments in early 2024 following a number of publicly voiced grievances from his former celebrity partners.
Amanda Abbington, the actress who plays Sherlock, quit the 2023 series of Strictly for “health reasons”, later claiming that she had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after taking part in the competition.
Laura Whitmore, Pernice's partner in the 2016 series, also spoke about her experience on Strictly, writing afterwards: “I was paired with an extremely uncomfortable dance partner and by the end I was heartbroken and in tears every day.”
