Strictly judges and backstage crew throw their support behind Giovanni Pernice after Amanda Abbington row

STRICTLY Come Dancing judges and a member of the backstage crew have supported Giovanni Pernice as he launched his new cosmetics line.

Last year, the Italian professional dancer was involved in a rumoured feud with former dance partner Amanda Abbington.

The Strictly star recently launched a perfume line, which he promoted on Instagram amid former partner Amanda taking legal advice and asking for behind-the-scenes footage from their rehearsals.

He posted an emotional caption alongside a raunchy image of him and an unidentified woman.

Giovanni wrote: “My aim in launching VITA was to create products to inspire and bring joy to life, and to explore another creative outlet for my passions.

“My fragrance VITA (Italian for life) is just that, a celebration of life. Of positivity when there is obviously so much around us, which can be a cause for the opposite. 

“We are starting this journey with high hopes and ambitions and with many more products in the pipeline. 

“I hope you enjoy VITA as much as I loved creating it, as this image from our launch photoshoot shows!”

Ballroom judges Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and costume designer Vicky Gill wasted no time showing their support as they quickly liked the post. 

Many fans also supported the star as one user penned: “Sending lots of love.”

Another added: “Fully supporting you. Keep maintaining your dignity.”

A third wrote: “Beautiful, inside & out...a hugely talented Man....Well done on your latest scentsational venture!”

A fourth followed: “Well done! Can't wait to smell it!"

Giovanni's perfume launch comes after it was rumoured that him and his Strictly dance partner were at odds, resulting in Amanda departing the show early.

At the time, the 51-year-old shared that she had quit last year’s Strictly for “personal reasons”.

But The Sun on Sunday revealed she now wants to review recordings of their “tense” training sessions to seek legal advice.

However, Strictly bosses have stood firmly beside the pro, who is one of the most successful dancers on the show.

Other former dance partners of Giovanni's have also recently been speaking out against the star.