Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has shown his support for Giovanni Pernice amidst the show's controversy. Gio faced allegations of bullying his dance partner Amanda Abbington, but an internal BBC probe upheld only six out of 17 complaints, excluding those of physical aggression.
The Italian dancer, aged 34, later clarified that he was a "strict teacher" but not a bully to the Sherlock actress, 50. Craig commented: "It says a lot that only six minor complaints out of the 17 were upheld in the BBC's investigation.
So, I feel now we can move forward with a fresh approach." He also told Saga magazine about the positive outcome of the situation, which led to the introduction of chaperones on Strictly, ensuring professionals and celebrities have someone to turn to for advice and to prevent issues from escalating. He added, "The good thing to come out of a difficult situation was the introduction of chaperones to Strictly. It's great that now professionals and celebrities have someone to go to for advice and to resolve issues and conflicts before they become a problem.
Striving for gold is never easy but gold is what competitors want, don't they? At the same time, Strictly's not the Olympics. It's a dance show and it's entertainment. We shouldn't forget that." Giovanni, who has consistently denied being a bully, responded to the investigation's findings by saying: "Bully is a big word and there's a difference between being a bully and caring about what you do.
"I'm glad 11 allegations have been thrown out. At the beginning there were very serious allegations, for instance threatening her or abusing her, and all of this has been taken out," reports the Mirror. "I'm a strict teacher.
I said it myself. I care about my job. I'm very competitive." Craig also revealed in the interview that his upcoming 60th birthday will be doubly joyous, as he shared some happy news about his mother's health.
Strictly Come Dancing
Giovanni Pernice
Craig Revel Horwood
Amanda Abbington