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Giovanni Pernice has defended himself from complaints launched by Amanda Abbington during their time as Strictly Come Dancing partners but fans of the hit BBC show may remember another

rumoured feud the year before. Italian pro dancer Gio, 33, became a fan favourite as he swept to the Glitterball victory with deaf Eastenders star Rose Ayling-Ellis in 2021 but the following

year Giovanni was paired with TV and radio star Richie Anderson. It was the first time Gio had been put in a same-sex pairing on the show and talk of clashes between the two swirled to the

point where the Strictly star spoke out to shut them down. "But this is the first time you are in a same sex couple," Janette Manrara had said in 2022. "How are we going to

tackle that this year? What are your plans?" Giovanni told her: "Well the plans are the same. I have to teach Richie how to dance. That's the point of the show, one is teacher

one is student. I think the structure of the couple will be different but I like to keep secrets and keep a little bit.." and then he gestured in putting something to one side. But

then he interrupted his flow to ask 'where is the camera?' before turning and looking straight into the lens and adding in a stronger tone: "We are having a good time.

"Obviously it's a dance competition at the end of the day but we are not...there is no problem between us. We are having a good time. Forget about what you are writing. It's

not true." Janette then added: "They are in love everybody, they're doing great." The following year, Sherlock star Amanda Abbington was paired with Giovanni but was

dogged by claims of a boycott of the series by a vocal minority since the lineup was announced. She later quit the series halfway through and cited PTSD. Giovanni, 33, has strongly denied

any allegations of misconduct while rehearsing for the live shows. A BBC spokesperson told Express.co.uk: “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. “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.”

Giovanni addressed the allegations as he took to Instagram and wrote: "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. “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."