HITTING BACK
Debbie McGee comes out in support of under fire Strictly star Giovanni Pernice amid complaint from Amanda Abbington
Actress Amanda Abbington was left with PTSD after partnering with Giovanni, according to pals
DEBBIE McGee has spoken out in support of her former Strictly partner Giovanni Pernice after actress Amanda Abbington complained to BBC bosses about his behaviour.
The former magician's assistant, 65, wowed viewers with Giovanni on their way to reaching the Strictly final in 2017, where they lost out to Joe McFadden and Katya Jones.
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Taking to Instagram tonight, Debbie shared a smiley photograph with the Italian dancer and wrote: "Happy memories.
Giovanni and I had the best of times on Strictly."
Under fire Gio responded: "Love you … thank you [love heart emojis]."
Fans of the pairing also liked the public display of support, with one fan commenting: "This is lovely of you Debbie in the light of recent events xxx."
Another said: "Debbie, you and @giovannipernice were absolutely amazing together. My winners for sure!"
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A third wrote: "Well done debs for saying how it was for you."
Strictly stalwart Gio has faced a barrage of criticism from former partners on the show.
Friends of Sherlock star Amanda, who quit the show last year while partnered with Gio, claim the experience left her with PTSD.
She has now filed a complaint to the BBC and has demanded they hand over footage of her rehearsals with Gio as she seeks legal advice.
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In a statement a spokesperson for the BBC said they took “duty of care incredibly seriously” after The Sun revealed they would not be launching an independent probe.
A spokesperson for the BBC told The Sun: “The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows.
“Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly.
“Strictly has a proud track record as a joyful, positive experience where robust support and assistance is always made available at every stage of the production.”
The Sun revealed today how some pro dancers and the crew had accused Strictly of “brushing under the carpet” concerns over Giovanni.
Along with Amanda, at least one other star, GMB’s Ranvir Singh, also complained about the Italian, while former Steps singer Faye Tozer is understood to have clashed with him.
TV personality Richie Anderson had unfollowed his former dance partner on Instagram, while ex-Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore previously said she was “broken” by her time with him.
The Sun can reveal bosses secretly had a meeting with Giovanni, 33, about his conduct last year, but no action was taken.
A source said: “Some of the professionals and crew feel it needs to be dealt with and Giovanni shouldn’t come back this year.
“It’s a shock to some on the show who think something needs to be done about his behaviour.
“Amanda had a really tough time with him and she isn’t the only one.”
Last night a source close to the pro said: “Gio finds some of these allegations deeply unfair and offensive.
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“He has had support from producers over what has happened recently and they are behind him. A lot of the negativity seems to be born out of professional jealousy, especially among the other pro dancers because he went on to get his own TV show with Anton Du Beke.
“Gio believes he’s done nothing wrong, and simply wants to get the best out of his partners.”
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