Strictly's Gorka Marquez breaks silence with four-word verdict on Giovanni Pernice scandal
Strictly Come Dancing stars Gorka Marquez and Karen Hauer appeared on Good Morning Britain to discuss the upcoming 20th anniversary of the BBC show
Gorka Marquez reveals he's 'sad' over Giovanni's exit
Gorka Marquez has addressed Giovanni Pernice's absence from the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Strictly's longest-serving professional dancers Gorka, 33, and Karen Hauer were welcomed onto Tuesday's instalment (June 25) of Good Morning Britain to discuss the upcoming 20th anniversary of the BBC show.
ITV presenter Susanna Reid quizzed Gorka about the current saga involving the Italian dancer, revealing that Giovanni's departure after nine years means he is now the longest-serving male pro.
Asked what it's like when a core member of the Strictly cast leaves, Gorka explained that it's a similar feeling to when other professionals decide to bid farewell to the series.
Gorka said: "I think it's like when Aljaž [Škorjanec] leaves or like when Anton [Du Beke] decided to be a judge, everybody is a big part of the show so when somebody decides to leave or change their careers... It's sad for everybody."
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Adil Ray questioned whether Gorka was still in touch with his former co-star, to which he replied: "Yeah, sometimes we speak. Obviously he's so busy, I'm busy, He's on tour at the minute with Anton."
Giovanni has been the subject of controversy in recent months after three of his former dance partners, including Amanda Abbington, hired lawyers to pursue claims against him.
The BBC launched an investigation after Giovanni was accused of "bullying behaviour". He has since denied the claims made against him.
In a statement released on social media, Giovanni said: "As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.
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"I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth. As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth."
It seems Giovanni hasn't looked back since his Strictly departure as he is now performing sell-out shows on his Together Tour with friend and former co-star Anton.
There is also talk of their travel series being revived after the duo's previous visits to Sicily and Spain went down a storm with viewers.