Giovanni Pernice probed by Christine Lampard over Strictly 'bullying' scandal live on air

Giovanni Pernice addressed the recent Strictly Come Dancing controversy in his first live television interview since the incident.

The professional dancer was embroiled in a bullying row after Amanda Abbington's allegations led to a BBC investigation, which substantiated six of her 17 complaints. During his conversation with Christine Lampard on Lorraine today, Giovanni opened up about the situation: "Strictly is a show that puts two people in a room. I didn't personally know Amanda and Amanda didn't know me. It's very concerning the fact that even if it's like that after three days, you've already complained."

In a frosty exchange, Christine probed into the nature of the conflict, prompting Giovanni to clarify: "First of all, the investigation didn't find me a bully, and it's important to put things straight. Bullying is a big word. There's a difference between bullying and caring what you do. It's very different.

"Everything seemed great. All I had was, 'Giovanni, you're an amazing teacher', 'Giovanni, you're great', and then, as Amanda said, she left because of health conditions, and my last message to her was saying, 'Please let me know how the scan goes, and I want to help you.' The last message to her was I'd help her find a doctor to sort it out."

The BBC issued an apology to Amanda following the investigation. Giovanni, who had consistently refuted the allegations, expressed his relief that the inquiry had absolved him of the abuse claims, reports the Mirror.

"We have assessed the complaints, and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made," the BBC announced in a statement. Giovanni later expressed his satisfaction with the "positive" outcome of the probe.

He said: "The allegations thrown out at the beginning were very strong. I'm happy that I can relax. We should all accept what the results say and move on!"

When asked if this could signify a comeback to Strictly, Giovanni responded, "Who knows? Never say never!"

Following the report, Amanda released a statement saying: "My decision to come forward and complain about Giovanni Pernice's conduct towards me was not an easy thing to do. In the days, weeks and months since I contacted the BBC, I've been accused of being a liar, a troublemaker and of being 'mad and unstable'. I've also received rape and murder threats, and a bomb threat was sent to my place of work. My family and children have also been subjected to threats and intimidation.

"Despite this vile abuse, I've never regretted coming forward, and today's apology from the BBC is a vindication of my complaint. It's not just a vindication for me, it's a vindication for the other people who have contacted me since I made my complaint to express concerns about their own experiences on Strictly Come Dancing. I hope those who have felt unable to speak out now will be more confident that they will be listened to and believed."

*Lorraine airs on ITV1 and ITVX at 9am.