GIOVANNI Pernice has been hit by more drama after a colleague quit a dance project they’re working on by posting a cryptic message.
The 33-year-old former Strictly Come Dancing star ran Ballando classes with Pasquale La Rocca, who is a pro on the Belgium version of Dancing with the Stars.
But Pasquale, 34, has announced he’s been forced to walk away from the project due to “circumstances out of his control”.
In a message to fans on Instagram, he wrote: “Over the last few days I have received a lot of DMs and messages from you in regards to my dance classes.
“I thought I should clear the air and give you an update on what’s happening from my side.
“Circumstances out of my control have brought my Ballando dance classes journey to an end. I don’t wish to linger on this, but to move forward.”
Giovanni is still running Ballando classes, with an upcoming date featuring Strictly judges Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke.
The former Strictly pro, who quit the show last month, is under investigation by the Beeb over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners.
Three of Gio’s ex-Strictly partners – including Amanda Abbington and Laura Whitmore – came forward with complaints about him.
This week The Sun revealed a male celebrity has now joined them.
A source said: “After three women came forward, a man has now joined their ranks.
“He personally reached out to the women at the heart of this unfolding crisis, offering them his support and full backing.”
Gio has been questioned over his “brutal, taskmaster training methods”,
Sherlock actress Amanda, who quit last year’s series early, said she had mild PTSD from working with Gio.
He has denied any wrongdoing and instructed top legal firm Schillings to fight his corner.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024:Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.