Strictly star Giovanni Pernice is one of the most popular dancers the show – and now Neil Jones has hit back at reports of a “rift” between the pair.
A friend of one of Neil’s exes, Sophie Lily Kerr, made a series of accusations in The Sun earlier today (April 24).
She said that, during their four-month romance last year, Neil spent a lot of time “complaining” about Giovanni.
However, now the flame-haired dancer has rubbished the reports, insisting the claims are “ridiculous”.
Strictly: Claims dancers ‘hate each other’
Sophie apparently told a pal that Neil – who is 40 next month – is “paranoid” about his age.
She claimed that he also worries that his “contract might not be renewed for the next season”.
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And, after saying that pro dancer Neil “immerses” himself in the show once it starts, she then made the damaging comments about his relationship with 2021 winner Giovanni.
“He spent a lot of time [bleep]ing about the other dancers and would complain about Giovanni Pernice the most — even though they are mates.
“Neil would comment on what he was wearing and what he spent his money on.
“Strictly seems like an odd community, a bit like a cult. The dancers all love each other when they are together and hate each other when they are apart,” she alleged.
Strictly’s Neil Jones hits back at Giovanni feud claims
However, speaking to the Mirror, a spokesperson for Neil rubbished the claims.
Sophie also claimed she was the one to end things with Neil – something Neil’s rep denies.
And they also laughed off the claims of gossiping.
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“There is no truth whatsoever to Sophie’s claims and he’s surprised to hear her take on things.
“Her version of events and decision to speak out on their time together only serves to show his intuition to end things was the right decision,” they said.
With regards to Giovanni, he only has the utmost respect and love for his fellow Strictly professional and friend.
The rep then hit back on the comments about Giovanni on behalf of Neil.
“With regards to Giovanni, he only has the utmost respect and love for his fellow Strictly professional and friend. The two of them will no doubt laugh about this ridiculous story.”
Who is Neil dating now?
It was recently reported that Neil – who was married to Katya Jones – had “moved in” with his new girlfriend.
It was claimed Neil and Sienna Hollen, a Romanian beauty queen, were living together in his London flat, after just a few weeks of dating.
However, Neil’s rep has denied the claims and insisted: “Neil is still very much happily single.”
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