Strictly's Giovanni Pernice releases statement amid reports of 'abusive or threatening' behaviour

Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has released statement amid allegations of 'abusive or threatening' behaviour.

A legal firm, named Carter-Ruck, has reportedly contacted the BBC regarding 'numerous serious complaints' about the professional dancer's alleged behaviour while filming the TV programme.

A statement from the law firm to the PA news agency reads: "There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC who are now in the process of evidence gathering.

"As it is still an ongoing matter no further comment can be made at this stage."

The BBC has not yet commented on the matter.

Since then, Pernice has come forward saying that he is 'surprised' by such reports about his teaching methods and also rejects 'any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour'.

The 33-year-old dancer took to Instagram yesterday (19 May) to share with his 1.1 million followers a statement about the claims.

He began: "To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.

"Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name."

Pernice, who first joined the show in 2015 and won for the first time in 2021 with EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, continued: "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.

"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."

He then finished up the statement with a message thanking his fans, adding: "Thank you all once again for your continued love and support! Giovanni."

Pernice previously addressed his alleged 'feud' with former partner, Amanda Abbington, for the first time back in January.

The 51-year-old Sherlock star, sensationally quit the much-loved competition mid-way through last year's series - reportedly much to the dismay of Pernice.

Since then, rumours of tension between the pair have been circling following various social media 'snubs' and a lack of transparency surrounding her exit.

Amanda thanked 'everyone on Strictly' for their love and support in a gushy post following her resignation announcement, which pointedly excluded Giovanni.

He himself later opened up about his sadness at not being able to continue in the competition.

Amanda claimed at the time her shock departure from the series was due to 'personal reasons'.

BBC has declined to comment on the story.