Giovanni Pernice is preparing to release a memoir that insiders say will detail his perspective on the dispute with former dance partner Amanda Abbington, a situation that led to his departure from "Strictly Come Dancing." The book, titled "Gio: Taking the Lead," is scheduled for release in the coming weeks and is expected to address the allegations Abbington made against Pernice during their time on the show.
Sources close to the dancer suggest Pernice blames Abbington for the end of his nine-year tenure on "Strictly," where he was a popular professional dancer. The memoir is anticipated to remind the public of the allegations, which could complicate Abbington's efforts to revive her acting career. "Giovanni isn't going out for violins, he isn't like that. But the book will remind the public of the allegations, which surely won't be helpful for Amanda when she's reigniting her career," a source told the Daily Mail. "It's like the ghost of Giovanni will be there, hanging over it. She'll be fuming."
Abbington, 54, who was partnered with Pernice on "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2023, officially complained about his alleged treatment of her. This led to a BBC investigation, and although Pernice was cleared of the most serious allegations, six of Abbington's 17 complaints were upheld. The findings included evidence of name-calling and a hostile environment. Pernice was subsequently confirmed not to be returning to the show.
Despite the controversy, Abbington is reportedly making a career comeback. She has signed roles in the Channel 4 drama "Hunting Alice Bell" and the Apple TV series "Down Cemetery Road." Her fiancé, Jonathan Goodwin, also recently settled a multi-million pound legal claim against the makers of "America's Got Talent" following a 2021 accident that left him paralyzed.
Pernice's book is expected to outline his version of events, with insiders claiming he "won't hold back" and intends to explain Abbington's actions against him. "Gio takes the view that he had grounds to complain about her, but didn’t," a source said. The memoir is also expected to touch upon BBC's vetting process, with Pernice reportedly believing that more rigorous vetting of contestants could have prevented the scandal.
The dispute between Pernice and Abbington began early in the 2023 "Strictly" season. Abbington stated she raised concerns about Pernice's behavior on her third day of rehearsals and eventually withdrew from the show in week six, citing health issues. She later accused him of verbal bullying, harassment, and inappropriate sexual behavior, also alleging he stamped on her foot.
Pernice denied the accusations and reportedly provided investigators with a 28-minute audio recording of a conversation with Abbington, which his team suggested demonstrated his supportive role. In the recording, Abbington reportedly acknowledged her own difficult behavior and referred to herself as a "nightmare" and someone who "self-sabotages."
Following the BBC investigation, Pernice stated it was the "hardest time of his life." He has since returned to Italy and won the Italian version of "Strictly," "Ballando con le Stelle," with his partner Bianca Guaccero, with whom he later began a relationship.
Fans of Pernice have expressed continued support, with some reportedly stating they would not watch programs featuring Abbington. The release of his memoir and the potential for Abbington's response could revive public discussion surrounding the "Strictly Come Dancing" controversy.