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Kerry Katona issues strong five-word declaration about Giovanni Pernice row

03 June 2024 , 07:38
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Kerry Katona has spoken out on the controversy surrounding Giovanni Pernice
Kerry Katona has spoken out on the controversy surrounding Giovanni Pernice

Strictly devotees were left heartbroken following the shock announcement that longstanding heart-throb Giovanni Pernice had called it quits with the beloved BBC series after a splendid nine-year stint.

The Italian stallion's decision came on the heels of a strained period with Sherlock sensation Amanda Abbington, his famed partner from last year's edition, who exited the contest in October after reported confrontational incidents brought her to tears due to her dancer partner's stringent training regime. Post her exit, other former dance partners of Giovanni - Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore to be precise have allegedly also expressed their discomfort over his behaviour.

In the midst of this escalating drama, Kerry Katona, who herself participated in Strictly's competitor show, Dancing on Ice, has entered the fray delivering an unequivocal five-worded opinion: "I don't think it's right."

Disclosing her thoughts in her exclusive column, the 43 year old former pop star voiced: "I've read about the ongoing drama with Giovanni Pernice and I'm not sure what to make of it. If there is truth to the allegations, then I don't think it's right."

Kerry Katona issues strong five-word declaration about Giovanni Pernice row eiqrtiqtdiddxprwGiovanni is facing allegations from Amanda Abbington (BBC)

"I understand taking your job seriously, but you can't be too strict. People want to do better when you're kind to them and treat them with respect. I had the most amazing partner in Daniel Whiston when I was on Dancing On Ice and it made me want to work harder. I'd love to do Strictly no one would dare shout at me, though! ", reports OK!.

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In the wake of ongoing controversy, the BBC has finally spoken out concerning alleged "threatening and abusive" behaviour by Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice during rehearsals - allegations he strongly refutes. The 33 year old dancer is at the centre of an internal probe.

With considerable media focus on the show and Giovanni, the broadcasting behemoth has now issued a statement addressing the issue. Cleverly sidestepping explicit references to either Strictly or Giovanni, it merely speaks to concerns about a high-profile series.

Kerry Katona issues strong five-word declaration about Giovanni Pernice rowKerry gave her thoughts on the situation (S Meddle/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The public statement articulates: "It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals. Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints."

"Recently, 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 and fair process."

"If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken. This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint - that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about."

They went on to say: "Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned. We will not be commenting further."

Eve Macdonald

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