Amanda Abbington’s fiance hits back at troll who accuses her of ‘trying to ruin Giovanni Pernice’s Strictly career’
AMANDA Abbington’s Britain’s Got Talent star fiance has hit back at one cruel troll who accused her of ‘trying to ruin Giovanni Pernice’s Strictly career’.
Giovanni, 33, is currently being investigated by the Beeb after Amanda and some his other former celebrity partners made complaints about him.
Last week, before the news broke that Gio had quit the BBC show, Amanda’s fiance Jonathan Goodwin posted a cryptic message about ‘terrible circumstances’.
One commented on his post: “Can you tell Amanda that thinking someone is “abrasive” doesn’t mean you set out to ruin their career?
“I know you found it uncomfortable watching them both together, perhaps even jealousy, but that’s not his problem, that’s yours.”
Jonathan simply replied: “Hi lovely thanks for this. I wish you well.”‘
His post read: “We don’t control what happens to us… but we do control how we feel about it….
“Every single moment that we live adds depth and weight to our identity.
“The good… and the bad… it is literally impossible to become an adult and not experience at least a few terrible circumstances…
“The real test of character is how we react to them.”
Amanda and Gio were partnered up together on Strictly Come Dancing last year.
The actress announced that she had quit the show just weeks into the competition, followed by rumours that she was feuding with the pro dancer.
At the start of this year Amanda allegedly told pals that her tense relationship with Giovanni during her time on Strictly had left her with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The Sun revealed that the Sherlock star had demanded footage of her rehearsals with Giovanni and was seeking legal advice.
Other celebrities have come forward about their experience, including Laura Whitmore.
Earlier this month it was revealed that the BBC launches an internal investigation into it all.
In a statement on social media, Gio addressed the claims and wrote: “To my dear fans, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.
“Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive.
“No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me,” he continued. “I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be.
“This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners. Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!”
Escapologist Jonathan shot to fame in the early 2000s, appearing on shows such as The Seven Stupidest Things to Escape From, Deathwish Live and One Way Out.
He appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in 2019, followed by America’s Got Talent the following year.
Jonathan then left unable to walk and suffered horrific injuries after a stunt on America’s Got Talent’s Extreme version went badly wrong. in 2021.
Amanda and Jonathan got engaged in 2021.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.