Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice broke his silence this week over the claims made against him regarding his treatment of celebrity partners on the BBC show.
However, a source has claimed the controversies against the 33-year-old have created "a nightmare situation" for the BBC.
It was reported last week that Pernice "quit" his Strictly role over the allegations, which have been making headlines since last year's show.
While some have defended the Italian dancer, it's also been claimed more people who have been paired with him are "coming out of the woodwork".
In a new update, a source stated: "These are troubled times for the BBC. This is a nightmare situation, frankly."
Speaking to The Sun, they continued: "Rumblings have been going on for months about his behaviour but they steadfastly declined to launch any investigation.
Pernice has reportedly 'quit' Strictly
BBC/Getty
"It was only when at least three contestants, all deeply traumatised and upset by some of his training methods and behaviour, complained that any action was taken.
"The huge fear is that more dirt will emerge, and the BBC will have been seen to proverbially stick its fingers in its ears, wilfully ignoring what was something of an open secret on and off set."
The source went on to point out that following the first complaint, the broadcaster "acted swiftly and professionally".
They concluded that if the BBC have "covered up or excused" bad behaviour, "questions will be asked".
Abbington made claims against the Strictly star
BBC
Sherlock star Abbington dropped out of the BBC competition on week five and later claimed she’d been diagnosed with PTSD following her stint in the series.
It was also reported Abbington was hoping to take legal action, with the 52-year-old allegedly asking for behind-the-scenes footage of her training with the choreographer.
Earlier this year, it was also said more of Pernice’s former Strictly partners, including Laura Whitmore and Ranvir Singh, had joined forces with Abbington and discussed their own experiences with the dancer.
While Pernice won the show in 2021 alongside former EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, the 29-year-old has now seemingly addressed the subject.
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Pernice broke his silence on the allegations this week
ITV
While it seemed the pair had remained friends following their win, the actress how now reportedly stated she "believes" the claims being made.
A source stated: "Rose is finding the whole situation really tough. She had a really great experience with Gio so is really shocked by it all."
Speaking to The Sun, they continued: "She of course believes what others are saying but she is just trying to not get involved. She won't be speaking about it publicly."
GB News has contacted the BBC and a representative of Pernice over the fresh claims.