Ranvir Singh admitted that she was “a bit scared” of Giovanni Pernice during her time partnered with him on Strictly Come Dancing in a resurfaced clip.
Reports also claim that Ranvir complained about working with Giovanni during her time on Strictly.
Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir danced with Giovanni on the BBC show in 2020.
Giovanni’s most recent partner, Amanda Abbington, reportedly developed PTSD after appearing on the show.
And Ranvir’s comments about her partnership with him resurfaced amid the claims.
Speaking on the ITV breakfast show at the time, Ranvir quipped: “Don’t be fooled by his angelic face. He is a fiery Italian, super strict. I am a bit scared of him.”
Giovanni Pernice on Strictly
The Sun also claimed in January that Ranvir “flagged an issue” during training with Giovanni. A source claimed: “Like Amanda, Ranvir also flagged an issue during training with Giovanni and said she was unhappy. The BBC appears to be doing nothing and it’s shocking.”
ED! contacted reps for Ranvir, Giovanni and the BBC for comment.
The BBC said: “The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows.
“Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly.
“Strictly has a proud track record as a joyful, positive experience where robust support and assistance is always made available at every stage of the production.”
Ranvir and Giovanni were a hit on the show, just missing out on a place in that year’s final.
Following reports that Amanda requested all footage of her and Giovanni rehearsing together, reports alleged he has fraught relationships with a number of his fellow partners.
Richie Anderson reportedly unfollowed him on Instagram a year after appearing on the show, while Laura Whitmore said she felt “broken” by her experience on the show.
Giovanni had recently split from Laura’s friend Georgia May Foote when she competed in 2016.
She told Hot Press magazine in 2018: “I was placed with a partner I was extremely uncomfortable with – and in the end I felt broken.”
Former partner speaks out
However, Debbie McGee, who competed with Giovanni in 2017, spoke out in support of him.
She posted an image of the two of them together on Instagram, captioned: “Happy memories. Giovanni and I had the best of times on Strictly.”
Giovanni commented on the post: “Love you… thank you,” alongside red heart emojis.
Read more: BBC issues statement on Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice furore
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