Peter Andre self-tapes furious Strictly statement as he rages over Janette Manrara

Peter Andre has weighed in on the recent Strictly Come Dancing controversies, throwing his support behind Janette Manrara.

Taking to social media, the pop star and former Strictly contestant expressed his solidarity on a self-taped video, saying as "someone who appeared on Strictly" he "should stick up for these people."

The 'Mysterious Girl' hitmaker, who opened up about his time on the 2015 series, praised his one-time dance partner Janette and fellow dancer Giovanni Pernice as "the nicest, most beautiful" individuals.

In a passionate video, Peter remarked, "They're getting dragged into things like this". He also posted a caption alongside a video on his Instagram today, penning: "My thoughts on @bbcstrictly @jmanrara @aljazskorjanec @giovannipernice @mrantondubeke", reports the Mirror.

"Although i don't know what happens in everybody's training room I can only speak about what I saw and experienced."

"It is however important that people speak up if they feel that something was wrong and important that they are heard. When Janette and others got dragged into it too, I couldn't help but wonder if this is going too far before any investigation."

Peter continued: "They were lovely to me and not just me, but the way I saw them with people. I think when Janette's name got dragged in too I thought 'come on guys, she's beautiful'. I don't know. I just think that yes of course if there is any misconduct that they have to find out but I think they're just dragging everyone's name in and I don't think it's fair."

"They're getting dragged into things like this," Peter says at one point in the furious video. "Of course, of course if someone did something bad and someone hurt somebody, I can understand that - of course that's not acceptable - but because I was there and people like Giovanni and Anton, they were always a gentleman to me."

Janette, who was paired with Peter in 2015, commented on the post, saying: "Love you so much @peterandre."

Peter's comments came after Janette has been dragged into the show scandal, as Will Bayley accused Manrara of causing him a life-changing severe injury, which occurred during their routine on the prime-time dance contest.

A representative for Manrara told BBC News: "Janette had a great time dancing with Will and one of her favourite moments on the show was doing their contemporary couples choice. Her celebrity partner's safety and enjoyment was always the priority throughout her time on Strictly. Janette has never received any complaints and has maintained friendships with all her partners, including Will."