Amanda Abbington exits social media as Giovanni Pernice's cut from Strictly line-up
Amanda Abbington has deleted her social media accounts on the same day that it was officially confirmed that Giovanni Pernice would not be returning to Strictly Come Dancing.
Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice has found himself in the eye of a controversy, resulting in his abrupt departure from the spotlight on both the esteemed BBC show and social media. The Italian dance maestro's name was notably absent from the line-up for the 2024 series.
The curtain came down on his five-star career as Sherlock star Amanda Abbington, who had been previously paired with him, wiped her social media presence clean right after it was established that Giovanni won't be returning for the next season.
Since making his debut in 2015 while dancing his way into the finals with Coronation Street star Georgia May Foote, Gio has been an integral part of the Strictly' family. But this time around, the cheers have transformed into questions.
An unsavoury controversy emerged when three of his former celebrity partners lodged complaints against the 33-year-old dancer. Consequently, the BBC has opened an investigation into these allegations, keeping its reputation intact.
While denying all accusations of "abusive or threatening behaviour", the Sicilian dancing champion, who had earlier clinched the trophy at the Italian Championships, expressed "forward to clearing my name". Amid the developments, some sources reported that more celebrities have solicited legal advice over diverse issues with Giovanni, reports the Mirror.
Amanda's decision to demand footage of their off-screen interactions took everybody by surprise. Embroiled in drama and facing scrutiny, Geovanni's Strictly journey has come to an unexpected halt amid the BBC's ongoing evidence gathering exercise.
In 2021, Giovanni Pernice dazzled audiences as he clinched the Strictly Come Dancing glitterball trophy with EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis, marking a milestone as she became the first deaf champion of the show.
The line-up for the upcoming series, set to grace our screens later this year, has been unveiled, promising the return of beloved dancers.
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The star-studded roster includes Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola, all set to light up the dance floor once again.
Amidst swirling rumours, Giovanni recently took to Instagram to address claims about his teaching style, firmly stating: "To my dear fans, You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.
"Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name."
He continued to express his dedication to the craft: "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. 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."
