Amanda Abbington slaps down Giovanni Pernice over 'invite' after BBC Strictly Come Dancing probe

Amanda Abbington’s cutting response to Giovanni Pernice after the BBC Strictly Come Dancing pro suggested they have a "tea and chat" has been revealed. BBC Sherlock star Amanda has slapped down Gio's suggestion after his ITV Lorraine interview today.

The Italian pro appeared opposite Christine Lampard, Lorraine Kelly's stand-in, after the Strictly Come Dancing investigation into his behaviour in the wake of Amanda's complaints to the Beeb over his conduct towards her during rehearsals.

Giovanni insisted he is not a bully when he appeared on the Lorraine show today. Speaking to the TV star, Giovanni replied: “I think we would have a nice cup of tea, we’ll have a chat and talk about what happened in that room.”

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A friend of the Sherlock star told The Sun: “If Giovanni is putting the kettle on and waiting to speak to Amanda, it will be ice cold. The only meeting she will attend is one with the BBC to raise concerns about the handling of the investigation.”

Christine said: “Amanda sat in this studio and described to us how it felt like bullying, to be in the rehearsal room with you.” Giovanni replied: “It’s in the public domain the fact I’m a strict teacher. If you want to achieve greatness, I think this is the right way.”

He added: “It’s very difficult, because at that time everything was perfect. Me and Amanda Abbington never had an argument.” But a spokesperson for Amanda said: “Mr Pernice’s claim that ‘everything in the rehearsal room worked perfectly’ is false and delusional, and underlines the toxic culture Ms Abbington endured on the show.”

Amanda’s pal added: “If, as he claims, nothing was wrong in the sessions, why did he feel the need to record everything covertly?” It came after Giovanni also said he recorded himself during rehearsals “because I didn’t feel comfortable in the room, I didn’t feel safe.”