Dance floored

Strictly 'struggling to sign up females' after Giovanni row

- LAURA ARMSTRONG

STRICTLY Come Dancing bosses are facing an uphill battle to sign up female celebrities for this year amid the backlash over Giovanni Pernice.

The professional dancer, 33, is locked in a legal battle with at least three of his former dance partners who have complained about his conduct. The Italian star denies any wrongdoing.

But show insiders said the row has had a knock-on effect ahead of this year's series.

One said: "Strictly bosses have been left reeling by the backlash against Giovanni.