Viewers of the British television program "This Morning" have criticized hosts Craig Doyle and Christine Lampard for their interview with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. Social media users described the Tuesday broadcast as "uncomfortable" and the hosts' approach as "harsh" and an "interrogation."

Pernice appeared on the show to promote his new book, "Taking The Lead." In the book, he discusses his experiences on "Strictly Come Dancing," including his departure from the show following a public clash with contestant Amanda Abbington in 2023. During the interview, Pernice and Doyle engaged in a tense exchange regarding the book's content.

Doyle pressed Pernice on whether the memoir aimed to revisit the scandal, stating, "It's hard to move on when you put something like that in the book though." Pernice countered that the book's purpose was to thank his supporters and present his factual point of view after the BBC investigation into the matter concluded. He added that his intention was not to use the interview to promote the book, but rather to share his life story.

Social media reactions indicated that viewers felt the hosts were biased towards Abbington. Comments posted on X, formerly Twitter, included sentiments that the presenters were being overly critical of Pernice, with one user stating, "He's the innocent party in all of this. This morning should be ashamed of themselves."

BBC Investigation and Pernice's Perspective

Pernice confirmed that he was not sacked from "Strictly Come Dancing" but that his contract was not renewed. The BBC's investigation into allegations concerning Pernice upheld six of sixteen accusations, while clearing him on ten. Pernice stated that he waited until the investigation and his recovery from the ordeal were complete before addressing the situation in his book and interviews.

During the interview, Doyle questioned Pernice about the "breakdown" of his relationship with Abbington and the allegations made against him. Pernice reiterated that he matched the "tone set in the room" during training and has since moved on, finding happiness with a new girlfriend and winning the Italian version of "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2024.

Christine Lampard then read a statement from Abbington's spokesman, which disputed Pernice's claims. The statement asserted that Pernice was attempting to "reframe the BBC Investigation and the findings that it made against him." It further stated that the suggestion he was not given a chance to present his side was "ludicrous" given the BBC's "thorough investigation," and that the findings were not solely related to the use of swear words. The statement also mentioned that both parties were asked to keep the investigation report confidential and that the BBC had apologized to Abbington and paid her "substantial compensation."

Pernice responded to questions about changing his training approach with his new partner by stating that he maintains his approach to achieve success. He expressed that he holds no ill feelings towards Abbington and believes they both want to move forward.