Amanda Abbington hands Strictly bosses new Giovanni evidence as probe escalates

There has been a major update in the ongoing Strictly misconduct scandal after Amanda Abbington handed the BBC fresh evidence supporting her claim.

Strictly: Craig reacts to Amanda Abbington allegations

The investigation into ex-Strictly Come Dancing pro Giovanni Pernice has been thrown into chaos after his former partner Amanda Abbington reportedly handed over new evidence to support her allegations. The 33-year-old Italian dancer has denied the accusations made against him.

The BBC investigation was expected to come to an end this week until the actress is said to have shown some text messages between her and Giovanni Pernice.

Speaking to The Sun, a source claimed Amanda's intervention "has turned the course of the probe.

The latest disclosures have reportedly changed the course of the investigation as they are alleged to show that his conduct fell short of what is expected from the Strictly pros.

Previously, insiders claimed the probe did not paint actress Amanda, who claimed to have been diagnosed with mild PTSD following her time on the show, as innocent.

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Amanda Abbington

Amanda discussing her Strictly experience in the Channel 4 documentar (Image: Channel4)

The source added: “The investigation is set to conclude this week but it has been made more difficult by the new disclosure from Amanda.

"It seemed Giovanni would be cleared but this new information has changed everything again."

The source went on to claim: “Giovanni, it seems now, did appear to step over the line of what is acceptable for a BBC ­representative but more discussions need to be had.

“Every time they seem to reach a conclusion, something else gets thrown in that throws the investigation in a new direction.”

Express.co.uk has contacted reps for Amanda, Giovanni and BBC for comment. A BBC spokesman said: “As we have said before, we will not be commenting on individuals or engaging in speculation.”

Amanda and Giovanni

Amanda and Giovanni competed together on Strictly in 2023 (Image: BBC)

After Amanda unexpectedly cut her time on Strictly short, it was later revealed that she had launched a complaint against ­Giovanni, accusing him of being “abusive, cruel and mean”.

The 33-year-old Italian dancer has firmly denied all accusations made against him.

He penned on Instagram: "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.

"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."

His lengthy statement 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."

Giovanni isn't the only pro to be hit with a slew of allegations by their former dance partner in recent weeks, as Graziano Di Prima is also under investigation.

He has been accused of abusing his 2023 dance partner Zara McDermott - but Graziano has also vehemently denied the allegations.

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