BBC probe into Giovanni Pernice continues despite exit from Strictly Come Dancing

The probe into Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice's alleged “misconduct” is reportedly still ongoing. The news comes after the BBC confirmed the Italian professional dancer, who has denied "any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour", would not be returning for the 2024 series.

The broadcaster announced the official line-up of professional dancers yesterday, confirming the likes of Amy Dowden, Katya Jones, Dianne Buswell, Gorka Marquez, Johannes Radebe, Karen Hauer, Jowita Przystal, and Neil Jones would be returning. Joining them on the dance floor is last year’s winner Vito Coppola, alongside Nikita Kuzmin, Graziano Di Prima, Kai Widdrington, Nadiya Bychkova, Carlos Gu, Nancy Xu, Luba Mushtuk, Lauren Oakley and Michelle Tsiakkas.

While Giovanni will not star in the show this year, his behaviour during rehearsals will apparently still be investigated following complaints made by multiple stars about the dancer. A source told MailOnline: “Giovanni's case is very much ongoing.

“The announcement is circulated when Strictly have finalised the contracts of the pros who are able to compete. Giovanni's absence has been known for some weeks.

“He won't have anything to do with the 2024 season. But the investigation into his alleged wrongdoings will continue to develop alongside preparation for the upcoming series.” Express.co.uk contacted the BBC, who declined to comment.

The investigation was launched by the BBC after the 33-year-old dancer was accused of “threatening and abusive behaviour” during his training sessions wit celebrities on the show.

Amanda Abbington, Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore have reportedly made complaints against the star, as well as a male celebrity, who apparently issued his own complaint last week.

It was previously reported that, despite Amanda demanding she receive tapes of her rehearsals with Giovanni to prove her claims of bullying, the videos will not be released to the Sherlock actress.

It has been claimed that, because the tapes featured a third person with a right for his privacy to be upheld, Amanda cannot access them without his authorisation.

A source told The Sun: “It raises the question, 'What has he got to hide?' It doesn't look good.

“The BBC will have reviewed the footage and considered if it was possible to redact content showing him.

“Having spoken to him they have decided to withhold it completely at his request. The irony is Giovanni's camp gave the impression it was his idea for cameras to monitor rehearsals even though Amanda's pals have insisted it was her.”

Amanda originally cited health reasons when she left midway through Strictly last year, but sparked rumours of a feud by failing to mention Giovanni in her farewell message on social media.

She later revealed she had been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following her time on the BBC show.

A Strictly spokesman has said: “If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken.

“This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint – that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.

“Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned.”

While Giovanni has denied allegations, previously writing in an Instagram post: “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.

“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!”