A BBC investigation into Strictly Come Dancing is said to have ‘opened a can of worms’ following allegations into former pro dancer Giovanni Pernice’s teaching methods.
The 33-year-old Italian dancer, who was recently confirmed not to return to the cast this year, has faced accusations over recent months of inappropriate and controlling behaviour.
It’s now been said that the investigation that followed has widened after more complaints over the beloved show.
A source said: ‘This investigation is no longer just solely about Giovanni but other, more wider issues.
‘The show has been going for 20 years and the whole veneer of Strictly is so sparkly and lovely, of course there will always be people who feel hard done by.’
The investigation was prompted after the likes of Amanda Abbington – who took part in Strictly last year but quit unexpectedly mid-way through – made a string of damning allegations.
The Sherlock star, 52, and two other women (rumoured to be Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh) made accusations of misconduct, which led to Giovanni stepping down from the show after several years.
Following her exit from the show, citing ‘personal reasons’ at the time, Amanda claimed her experience left her with PTSD.
Giovanni meanwhile maintains innocence and has said in a statement that he wishes to clear his name.
The insider added to The Mail: ‘Amanda’s complaints have started something massive, it has opened the door for others to come forward about things they haven’t been happy with.
‘It is all a big headache for the BBC, it is about to celebrate a massive milestone with its 20th anniversary.
‘Having the Giovanni complaint has been a big enough issue, but now it looks like there is more to be scrutinised and looked into.’
It’s said the widened inquiry could see Giovanni as a ‘small fish’ in Strictly’s possible downfall.
This comes after Strictly Come Dancing’s 20th-anniversary special at Buckingham Palace has been scrapped, according to reports.
In December, the beloved BBC show will be celebrating two remarkable decades on our screens, however, it’s been said huge plans involving royals have been scuppered due to logistical problems and diary clashes.
According to The Sun, the broadcaster’s probe into Giovanni was also a factor in the decision, meaning King Charles and Queen Camilla might have to miss out, despite being huge fans of the programme.
Meanwhile, every other Strictly professional from the last series will return this autumn, including longest-serving dancer Karen Hauer and Amy Dowden, who took a break last series to undergo treatment for breast cancer.
Strictly legend Aljaž Škorjanec is also returning tot he show after three years, saying he’s ‘probably more excited now than I was when I first started’.
Metro.co.uk has approached the BBC for comment.
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Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
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