Now Laura speaks out

TV PRESENTER Laura Whitmore has alleged she was subjected to "inappropriate behaviour" during her stint on Strictly Come Dancing.

- David Stephenson and Julia Kuttner

The Irish former Love Island host was paired with scandal-hit professional dancer Giovanni Pernice in 2016.

Laura, who battled through an ankle injury during the early stages and was the seventh star to be eliminated, claims she "raised concerns" at the time.

Giovanni, 33, has rejected "threatening or abusive behaviour" allegations made by Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, who was partnered with him in 2023 before he exited the show.

Laura, 39, wrote on social media yesterday: "I was trying not to comment on recent press speculation until the BBC review is complete - but feel there is a lot of misinformation in the press and I want to help and show support by setting the record straight.

"I was asked to speak to the BBC, along with six people that I know of, about inappropriate behaviour they experienced similar to mine with the same individual.

"I initially raised concerns back in 2016. I thought my experience was specific to me but I've since learned I was wrong."