STRICTLY star Giovanni Pernice addressed claims today that he “didn’t click” with his famous dance partner Richie Anderson.
Giovanni32, and Richie34, hit back tonight on the spin-off show It Takes Two after insiders said the pair didn’t get along.
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Sources claimed the professional dancer was frustrated with Richie for not listening during rehearsals ahead of their first live performance on Saturday night.
It Takes Two host and ex Strictly pro Janette Manrara delved into the reported feud, asking Giovanni, “How’s training going?”
He replied: “We’re having a good time, we’re definitely having a good time.
“Obviously it’s a dance competition, at the end of the day, so we have to learn something, but there’s no problem between us. We’re having a good time.”
It comes as Radio 2 host Richie was seen heading to lunch today only amid reports they’ve had a rough start? the competition.
Sources told how reigning champion Giovanni struggled to get his points across to Richie who is “extremely over-enthusiastic” to participate.
One said: “The pair haven’t clicked. Richie gets so carried away with the whole experience that he speaks 100 words a minute, and it can be difficult for Giovanni.
“He’s been telling his friends that Richie talks instead of listening during training, and it’s frustrating.”
But the source added that it was early days and they are still getting used to each other.
They added: “Giovanni thinks Richie has real potential in the competition.”
Richie later broke his silence on the situation and thanks Gio after their first live performance, a Cha Cha Cha for Wham!’s I’m Your Man.
Richie34, shared a video of the dance, saying: “A moment I will never forget and so lucky I got to share it with @pernicegiovann1 ❤️.
“Thank you Gio for being the best teacher for the past two weeks.
“Lots of feedback from the judges to take with me, can’t wait to get back in the training room.”