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Giovanni Pernice’s Heartfelt Tribute to Anton Du Beke Amidst Bullying Scandal

BBG News

In a heartfelt gesture, Giovanni Pernice honored Anton Du Beke as an invaluable source of strength and a lifelong companion, expressing gratitude for his unwavering support during challenging times that left Giovanni feeling like his world had shattered, following the accusations against Amanda Abbington.

Speaking mid-performance during the inaugural night of his Last Dance tour at High Wycombe’s Swan Theatre on a Tuesday, the previous Strictly Come Dancing pro shared insights and discussed the controversy that has arisen.

Looking back at the period before the Sherlock actress, aged 50, brought her shocking revelations, Giovanni, at 34, shared: “I’d like to believe that I had a good run of success. I was in high demand and performing everywhere.

‘I was on a TV show with my best friend [Du Beke] so I felt like I was at the top of my game.

In a sense, I was unbeatable, more like a legendary hero. I felt as if I had my own troops… my followers. However, it seems that destiny held other intentions for me.

Last July, over six months following Amanda Abbington’s departure from the BBC series due to personal matters, she later accused her dance partner Pernice of being unnecessarily harsh, cruel, and mean in their interactions during their stint on Strictly Come Dancing.

Immediately upon hearing the claims, Pernice dismissed them, and an investigation by BBC concluded in September that her allegations of physical violence and intimidating actions were found to be unsubstantiated.

However, allegations of verbal harassment and bullying led the BBC to issue an apology. Yet, Giovanni expressed satisfaction that the report did not discover any proof of intimidating or aggressive actions against him.

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share that following the investigation, Giovanni – the dancer on the British Strictly equivalent – is currently touring the UK. In his own words: “I suspect you’re aware; this year hasn’t been my best. Now that I can openly discuss it, I felt as if the world crumbled beneath me.

‘I didn’t have anybody around me. People who were supposed to be my friends disappeared.

I was feeling quite isolated as if no one wanted my company. It seemed everyone avoided me, and they shied away from being associated with me due to the fear of being judged by others: “You’re with him.

The dancer continued, expressing that he’d often heard a voice within him assuring him of eventual vindication, and that the ordeal would eventually pass.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but acknowledge the profound influence of my idol, the legendary Freddie Mercury from Queen. In our private moments, he would inspire me with his words: “Giovanni, don’t fret. Regardless of what transpires, always remember, the show must carry on.

Instead, let me rephrase it in a more conversational manner: However, Anton Du Beke, a close friend and judge from Strictly, remained a strong supporter of the Italian dancer even after the allegations against him by Amanda surfaced. The duo will embark on their Together Again tour this year.

Giovanni went on to say, “I’m still here, and I’m grateful I undertook that tour with my friend last year. He was a pillar of support for me.

After gesturing towards Anton, aged 58, who had been observing from the stands, Giovanni encouraged the crowd to offer him a hearty round of applause.

At the end of the performance, the dancer shared: ‘Don’t forget, this isn’t our final goodbye on tour, it’s just our farewell dance for now. I’ll be back in the summer with my dearest companion for an even better tour. I hold you all close to my heart.’

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2025-01-21 19:08

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