Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Karen Carney has broken her silence on the Giovanni Pernice scandal, delivering a pointed message to her former colleague in the wake of a BBC investigation.
The ex-England footballer, who hung up her dancing shoes in 2021, didn't mince her words when discussing the allegations surrounding Pernice's rigorous training methods. Her comments come after a tumultuous period for the Italian dancer, which saw his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington, withdraw from the 2023 competition citing 'medical reasons'.
"It's a tough one," Carney stated, addressing the controversy head-on. "I think it's important that we all learn and grow from these experiences. The show is about joy and entertainment, but it's also a high-pressure environment."
Carney's intervention follows reports that the BBC launched an internal inquiry after Abbington requested footage of their rehearsals, allegedly due to concerns over Pernice's intense approach. While the broadcaster has stated it offers "comprehensive support" to all involved, the incident has cast a shadow over the glitterball trophy.
The sporting icon turned dancer emphasised the importance of well-being behind the scenes: "It's crucial that everyone, both celebrities and professionals, feels supported throughout the process. It's a marathon, not a sprint, and well-being must be paramount."
With Pernice's future on the show now hanging in the balance, Carney's words serve as a significant commentary from within the Strictly family. The public awaits to see if the Italian dancer will be invited back for the 2024 series, making this one of the biggest behind-the-scenes dramas in the show's history.
