Giovanni Pernice has been left “absolutely terrified” after being attacked with a noxious substance.
The Strictly Come Dancing star is reported to have been left shaken after he was sprayed in the eyes with a substance in Epping, Essex.
It is believed he had his watch and rucksack stolen during the attack.
A source is reported to have told The Sun: “His first thought was that it was an acid attack – because of the burning in his eyes.
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“He has been left absolutely terrified by the attack. It has hugely knocked his confidence.”
Ashley Roberts is said to have been comforting her dance pro boyfriend and is “concerned” it could happen again.
An unnamed insider told the tabloid: “As a person in the public eye, Ashley is just as concerned that this kind of thing could happen to her too.”
Concerned fans have been sending their best wishes to popular star Giovanni on social media, with a famous faces among those to get in contact.
View this post on InstagramCan I have a kiss @iamashleyroberts ?? I promise I‘ll return it back very soon !
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“Good God @pernicegiovann1, are you okay?” tweeted broadcaster Jeremy Vine earlier today.
“Hope you are alright Giovanni! It must have been a shocking and dreadful thing to happen, you must have been terrified,” stated another supporter.
A third commented on Instagram: “Hope you are ok Giovanni – terrible people out there.”
And another person added: “How anyone could be unkind and hurt you I don’t know. There are some nasty jealous people out there. Be the bigger person and don’t let Them win! Bring on Strictly.”
ED! has contacted a rep for Giovanni for comment.
– The 2019 series of Strictly Come Dancing launches tonight at 7.10pm
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