The BBC probe investigating Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice could run into next year, according to reports. 

The professional dancer, 33, who has since stepped down from the show, is at the centre of a bullying row after claims made of misconduct 

by his Strictly partner Amanda Abbington, 52, and two other women.  

Up to five celebrities have ‘already provided formal statements’ to two ex-Metropolitan Police detectives who are leading the enquiry, according to The Sun. 

The publication states Sam Bickley, the BBC’s duty of care executive, is expected to address the matter for the first time on Tuesday.

A source said the investigation could ‘extend into next year’ and management feel there is significant ‘pressure’ to ensure it is as thorough as possible.

The insider said: ‘Up to five stars have presented evidence in statements and WhatsApp exchanges. Gio is likely to be quizzed last, once everything else is in order.

‘He’s more than happy to speak to investigators and is determined to clear his name.’

The source added the BBC are hoping the findings will not be published in the middle of the upcoming series as the show celebrates its 20th anniversary.

It is thought Sam will discuss measures to protect performers at a Royal Television Society panel next week.

MailOnline has contacted Strictly and Giovanni’s representatives for comment. 

It comes after the Strictly Come Dancing cast have reportedly been banned from discussing the ‘bullying row’.

Bosses are said to be worried the family-friendly reputation of the show is tainted and want to do everything they can to stop people from talking. 

The BBC launched an investigation after Giovanni was accused of ‘bullying behaviour’ while working with celebrity contestants on the dancing show, including Amanda, Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore.

Amanda left the competition mid-way through the series, citing personal reasons after weeks of rumours about a feud with Giovanni. 

The Sherlock star said she was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and demanded to see footage from rehearsals. 

Amanda later rubbished reports Giovanni had asked the BBC to record his rehearsals with the actress over growing concerns about her behaviour – claiming she had requested their dance practices to be filmed, not him. 

‘I asked for them to be recorded, it was me. Giovanni is nasty. He was awful to a few of us, a group of us.’ 

The actress is said to have met with Laura  and Ranvir  earlier this year for an ’emotional summit’ to ‘compare notes’ about their time working with Giovanni amid the BBC’s probe. 

Giovanni launched a fightback by hiring rival law firm Schillings. His case is being handled by Joelle Rich, 39, who represented Johnny Depp in his libel trial in 2020. 

A spokesman for Giovanni said: ‘Schillings is engaging with BBC Studios to provide it with Giovanni’s evidence to strongly rebut the claims being made about him and confirm Giovanni is fully cooperating.

‘As with any reality TV show, when decisions are being made for entertainment reasons, the producers have a duty of care to all participants.’ 

Giovanni also shared a post to Instagram detailing that he was ‘totally surprised’ by the allegations, which he denies. 

He said in a statement: ‘You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.

‘Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.

‘Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

‘I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win – for me and my dance partners.

‘Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!’

Meanwhile Amanda reported receiving death threats from Giovanni’s fans after claiming she developed PTSD from her experience with him. 

The actress deleted her social media accounts, just hours after it was confirmed the professional dancer would not be returning to the series amid the alleged workplace ‘misconduct’.

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Source: CNN