Strictly professional Giovanni Pernice has thanked fans for their support amid his ongoing 'feud' with 2023 partner Amanda Abbington.
The Sherlock actress, 51, has recently claimed that appearing on the BBC show with him last year left her with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Abbington unexpectedly quit the dance competition citing "personal issues" last year. At the time, she denied that falling out with the Italian former Strictly champion, 33, was the reason behind the departure.
But now, she has asked for rehearsal footage to be shared by the BBC - claiming his "tense" and "full-on" training methods during her time on the show were detrimental to her mental health.
She has also reportedly sought legal advice over her experience on the show.
A number of celebrities have spoken out in favour of both Pernice and Abbington - with his former partners performer Debbie McGee and singer Nicola Roberts leaping to the dancer’s defense.
Meanwhile, Good Morning Britain host and former contestant Susanna Reid has backed Abbington in the feud.
Now Pernice has taken to social media to thank those who have spoken out in his favour and fans for their support.
On Instagram, he wrote: “I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has sent message of support of the last week - I really truly appreciate it - thank you thank you thank you Gio.”
It comes as The Sun claims BBC bosses had a meeting with Pernice over his conduct while he was dancing with Abbington. However, no action was taken.
A source told the publication: “Some of the professionals and crew feel it needs to be dealt with and Giovanni shouldn’t come back this year.
“The BBC are standing behind Giovanni and won’t be pursuing an investigation, it’s a shock to some on the show who think something needs to be done about his behaviour.
“Amanda had a really tough time with him and she isn’t the only one. Four more of his partners have either talked openly about how hard it was working with him or have made it clear in the industry.”
According to The Mail, Strictly are prepared to fight Abbington with her claims - suggesting that she originally told them she was leaving due to other medical reasons.
“She told production of a totally different medical condition and they [were] hugely supportive of her and did all they could to help.
“Nobody seems to quite understand what is going on here.”
Both Abbington and Pernice have been contacted for comment by The Standard.
