Strictly Shirley Ballas' four-word Giovanni Pernice verdict as she addresses report

Strictly Come Dancing’s Shirley Ballas has broken her silence following the findings of BBC’s probe into Amanda Abbington’s ‘bullying’ claims against dancer Giovanni Pernice.

The former pro shared his “relief” after being cleared from a “majority” of the 16 allegations made by the actress, who he was paired with in 2023.

During the nine-month investigation, the 64-year-old was vocal about her support for Giovanni and shared her thoughts about the conclusion on Wednesday.

Shirley told The Mirror: “I don't condone bullying – I've been through it myself.

“So if things aren't right or need addressing, I feel for the person that wants them addressed and I think that's a big, important part – that everybody gets to say their thing.”

She continued: “But now the investigation is over and everybody can move on.”

In July it was reported that Shirley had been ordered by BBC bosses to “rein in” her public support for Giovanni as the broadcaster continued to investigate.

The dancer supported the former pro and said that he’s a “good friend” to her and she will be “by his side” forever.

However, according to a source via The Mirror, the corporation was not happy that Shirley had been so vocal in her support due to the nature of the claims against him.

The insider said: “Shirley has been told she needs to rein it in and not talk about Giovanni in the context of the case.

“It's such a complex thing that we can’t have people associated with the show speaking out about it.”

Out of a total of 16 complaints made by Amanda, six were upheld including Giovanni’s use of swear words.

The report said the dancer's language could be “belittling” towards his partner, which allegedly included negative feedback.

There were also instances of “inappropriate” sexual banter although this was said to have been done with humour, reports the Telegraph.