Strictly bosses suggested recording Giovanni Pernice & Amanda Abbington’s rehearsals after crisis meetings
STRICTLY Come Dancing bosses suggested rehearsals between Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington were recorded after several crisis meetings.
Contrary to reports that pro dancer Giovanni, 33, was the one who requested cameras in training, the Sun on Sunday can also reveal that, upon reviewing the footage, senior BBC execs were so dismayed by his behaviour they insisted he apologise to Amanda.
It comes as the BBC launched an internal investigation last month into serious workplace misconduct after receiving complaints from previous dance partners, including actress Amanda, 52, and TV presenter Laura Whitmore.
They are being represented by lawyers Carter Ruck.
A source said: “The female executives realised there was a serious problem with Giovanni’s teaching style so installed cameras and a crew member to take notes on a log after about two weeks of them starting training.
“When the women reviewed the footage they were shocked by what they saw and asked Giovanni to apologise for his behaviour.”
A spokesman from the BBC declined to comment, but asked that we refrain from naming the producers.
Last week the Sun on Sunday revealed how the BBC investigation was told that Italian-born Giovanni sent a celebrity dance partner an offensive video clip.
He is alleged to have sent the clip via WhatsApp ahead of filming one of the live Saturday night shows.
He did not make, commission or appear in the video.
The BBC issued a statement about its investigation into Giovanni – without naming him or the show.
The dancer faces a string of allegations over his training regime. He denies all allegations.
Last week the BBC said: “We have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show.
“We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality.”