New Twist in Strictly Bullying Row: Male Celeb Complains About Giovanni Pernice Amid Actions by Three Women. p.1

A MALE celebrity has joined the group of female stars to complain about Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice, The Sun can reveal.

Insiders said the man has been in touch with the lawyers who are acting for the other complainants.

A male celebrity has joined the group of female stars to complain about Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice – pictured here with former partner Laura Whitmore

Insiders said the man has been in touch with the lawyers who are acting for the other complainants

Amanda Abbington said working with Giovanni on Strictly had given her mild PTSDCredit: BBC
A source said last night: “After three women came forward, a man has now joined their ranks.

“He personally reached out to the women at the heart of this unfolding crisis, offering them his support and full backing.

“He has also been in touch with Carter Ruck and told them what he knows, and shared his experiences.

“These experiences were, at times, very tricky.”

It comes weeks after we revealed Gio, 33, was quitting the show.

The Sicilian pro has been questioned over his “brutal, taskmaster training methods”.

Within 24 hours of our story, lawyers Carter Ruck confirmed the BBC had launched a probe into workplace misconduct.

Three of Giovanni’s former partners — said to be Amanda Abbington, Laura Whitmore and Michelle Visage — all contacted the legal firm with their complaints.

Sherlock actress Amanda, who quit last year’s series early, said she had mild PTSD from working with Gio.

He has denied any wrongdoing and instructed top legal firm Schillings to fight his corner.

A spokesman for Giovanni told The Sun: “Schillings is engaging with BBC Studios to provide it with Giovanni’s evidence to strongly rebut the claims being made about him and confirm Giovanni is fully cooperating.

“As with any reality TV show, when decisions are being made for entertainment reasons, the producers have a duty of care to all participants.”

Last week the BBC 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.

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