'We never had an argument' says Strictly's Giovanni amid 'bullying' claims

ok.co.uk:

Giovanni Pernice has finally broken his silence on the Strictly Come Dancing controversy involving actress Amanda Abbington in his first TV interview.The Italian dance maestro decided it was time to "set the record straight" and shared his side of events in an explosive chat with stand-in presenter Christine Lampard on ITV's Lorraine.

Giovanni did not shy away from speaking his mind on the daytime TV set. Although he acknowledged his training style might be considered "strict" he insisted: "Me and Amanda never had an argument." Baffled by some of the allegations presented to BBC chiefs, Giovanni firmly refuted any suggestions that he had been "aggressive" toward Amanda.

While admitting to moments of "frustration," he explained to Christine that it was only because Amanda was an "brilliant" and "talented dancer", whom he was merely pushing to reach her "full potential", reports the Mirror.

Following a thorough examination by senior figures at the BBC, it was concluded through their complaints process that instances of verbal bullying and harassment were proven 'true', though claims of physical assertiveness were dismissed.