Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice has rejected claims he displayed “abusive or threatening behaviour” while working as a professional dancer on the show.
The 33-year-old Italian dancer said he was “surprised” amid reports that BBC is investigating complaints about his conduct.
A law firm acting on behalf of whistleblowers said the broadcaster is “gathering evidence” – but the BBC has not confirmed that any investigation has been launched.
In the statement shared on Instagram, Pernice wrote: “To my dear fans, you will be as surprised as I am by the allegations made in the media about my dance teaching methods this week.
“Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behavior and look forward to clearing my name.”
He added: “Those who have followed my journey Come dance strictly Over the last decade you will know that I am passionate and competitive.
“No one is more ambitious with my dance partners than me.
“I have always strived to help them be the best dancers they can be.
“It always came from a feeling of love and wanting to win – for myself and my dance partners.”
Pernice ended the message by writing, “Thank you everyone again for your continued love and support! Giovanni.”
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A statement from law firm Carter-Ruck to the PA news agency said: “There have been numerous serious complaints made to the BBC, which is now in the process of gathering evidence.
“As this is still an ongoing matter, no further comment can be made at this stage.”
The Sun, which first reported suggestions that an investigation was underway, also claimed that Pernice had quit the show.
Neither the BBC nor Pernice have confirmed his departure.
Sicily-born Pernice has been on BBC One’s celebrity dance show since 2015.
In 2021, he lifted the Strictly glitterball trophy for the first time alongside EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, who was the first deaf contestant to win. He had appeared in three show finals previously.
He also holds the Guinness World Record for most kicks and moves in 30 seconds, which he achieved on BBC show Strictly It Takes Two in 2016.
The BBC was approached by Sky News but declined to comment.
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