Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice misconduct probe could run into next year as ‘five celebrities provide formal statements to ex Metropolitan Police officers’

The BBC investigation into Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice could take place next year, according to reports.

The professional dancer, 33, who has since stepped down from the show, has found himself at the center of a bullying row following claims of misconduct by his Strictly partner Amanda Abbington, 52, and two other women.

Police say up to five celebrities have “already made formal statements” to two former Metropolitan Police detectives leading the investigation. The sun.

According to the publication, Sam Bickley, the BBC’s duty of care director, is expected to speak about the issue for the first time on Tuesday.

A source said the investigation “could last until next year” and that management feels there is significant “pressure” to ensure the investigation is carried out as thoroughly as possible.

The BBC launched an investigation after Giovanni was accused of ‘bullying’ while working with celebrity contestants on the dance show, including Amanda Abbington (pictured)

The insider said: ‘Up to five stars have presented evidence in statements and WhatsApp exchanges. Gio will likely be questioned last, once everything else is in order.

“He is happy to speak to investigators and is determined to clear his name.”

The source added that the BBC hopes the findings are not published halfway through the upcoming series, as the show celebrates its 20th anniversary.

It is thought Sam will discuss measures to protect performers at a Royal Television Society panel next week.

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Strictly and Giovanni for comment.

This comes after the cast of Strictly Come Dancing were reportedly banned from talking about the ‘bullying incident’.

Bosses are said to be concerned that the show’s family-friendly reputation has been tarnished and want to do everything they can to stop people talking.

A BBC duty of care director is thought to be set to discuss measures to protect artists at a Royal Television Society panel on Tuesday

A spokesperson for Giovanni said the dancer strongly denies the claims made about him and confirmed he is fully cooperating with the investigation.

The BBC launched an investigation after Giovanni was accused of ‘bullying’ while working with celebrity dance show contestants including Amanda, Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore.

Amanda left the competition midway through the series, citing personal reasons after weeks of rumors of a feud with Giovanni.

The Sherlock star said she had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and demanded to see footage of rehearsals.

Amanda later denied reports that Giovanni had asked the BBC to record his rehearsals with the actress amid growing concerns about her behavior – claiming she had asked to film their dancing practices, not him.

“I asked to take them in, it was me. Giovanni is mean. He was horrible to a few of us, a group of us.”

The actress is said to have met Laura and Ranvir earlier this year for an “emotional summit” to “exchange experiences” about their collaboration with Giovanni, amid the BBC investigation.

Giovanni launched a fight by hiring the rival law firm Schillings. His case is being handled by Joelle Rich, 39, who represented Johnny Depp in his 2020 defamation trial.

A spokesman for Giovanni said: ‘Schillings is in discussions with BBC Studios to provide Giovanni’s evidence to strongly refute the allegations against him and confirm that Giovanni is co-operating fully.

‘As with any reality show, if decisions are made for entertainment reasons, producers have a duty of care to all participants.’

Giovanni also shared a post on Instagram saying he was “completely surprised” by the allegations, which he denies.

In a statement he said: ‘You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made in the media this week about my dance teaching methods.

‘I naturally reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behavior and I look forward to clearing my name.

‘Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last ten years will know that I am passionate and competitive. No one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

“I have always strived to help them become the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and the desire to win – for me and my dance partners.

“Thank you again for your continued love and support!”

Meanwhile, Amanda reported receiving death threats from Giovanni’s fans. They claimed she developed PTSD from her experience with him.

The actress deleted her social media accounts just hours after it was confirmed that the professional dancer would not be returning to the series due to alleged workplace ‘misconduct’.