Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice hinted at ‘real reason’ behind clash with Amanda Abbington months before rehearsal row
GIOVANNI Pernice hinted at the “real reason” behind his clash with Amanda Abbington months before her bombshell claims.
Actress Amanda, 51, is reported to be seeking legal advice after requesting footage of her rehearsals with Giovanni, 33, during last year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
The Sherlock star quit the show in October citing medical reasons — and a source has revealed she has since been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after “tense” training sessions with Giovanni.
Pro dancer Gio has been very open about his fiercely ambitious nature and months before being paired up with Amanda he told how he became “addicted” to winning after lifting the Glitterball trophy with Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021.
Speaking to The Guardian, he said: “There are no distractions. Then came the experience of winning – something I became addicted to.
“The first time I won a competition I thought, ‘Being the champion feels nice. Let me have more of it!'”
Last week The Sun told how Amanda had requested the footage from Strictly bosses and believes the hours of their practice tapes could support her claims about the Giovanni’s alleged behaviour towards her.
A pal claimed it has taken months for Mr Selfridge actress Amanda to recover from her time on the dance show.
They said: “Amanda has been left broken and saddened by the whole experience. She has needed therapy and was left in shock by the behaviour she was exposed to.
“Everyone else was having a fabulous time, but she was really stressed by having to spend eight hours a day with Giovanni. She spent a lot of time crying and couldn’t sleep or eat properly.”
Last night Gio addressed the fall-out for the first time as he thanked fans for their support.
Posting on Instagram, he wrote: “I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has sent messages of support over the last week – I really truly appreciate it.”
He added: “Thank you thank you thank you GIO.”