BBC Apologizes to Amanda Abbington After Claims Against Giovanni Pernice Partly Upheld
The BBC has issued an apology to Amanda Abbington after concluding a review into her complaints against her Strictly Come Dancing partner, Giovanni Pernice. The investigation upheld several of Abbington’s claims, specifically those relating to verbal bullying and harassment, while dismissing more serious accusations of physical aggression.
Abbington described the apology as a "vindication" of her decision to come forward, despite facing significant online abuse, including death threats.
In a statement, Abbington said the BBC's apology “means a great deal” and that she hopes it encourages others to speak out if they have had similar experiences. She revealed that since making her complaint, she has been accused of being “mad and unstable” and that both she and her family had been subjected to threats. However, she stressed that she does not regret coming forward and hopes this will make others feel more confident that they will be believed.
The review, which took six months, involved contributions from individuals who had expressed concerns about their experiences on the show. While the specifics of these complaints remain confidential, the BBC emphasised that it is committed to maintaining the highest standards for a "family show" like Strictly.
BBC says steps it took to address the issues were not enough
The BBC acknowledged that while it took steps to address the issues during filming, those measures "were not enough." The broadcaster has since introduced additional care protocols, including chaperones in all rehearsal rooms and new welfare roles.
"We want the show to ultimately be a joyous and transformative experience," the BBC said in a statement, adding that they have apologised to Abbington and appreciated her courage in coming forward.
Abbington, who left the competition early last year due to what she initially called “personal reasons,” has said she is now considering an invitation to meet with senior BBC management to discuss the changes being implemented. She expressed her hope that the network's promised reforms would prevent similar situations for future contestants.
Pernice relieved investigation found no evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour
Pernice, on the other hand, expressed relief that the investigation found no evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour. He denied the accusations from the beginning and said it had been an “extremely difficult year.”
A representative for Pernice stated that the majority of the claims had been dismissed and suggested that the BBC upheld some of the “weakest” allegations to avoid criticism.
Pernice, who has been with Strictly since 2015, winning the competition in 2021, did not return for this year’s series. He has since joined the cast of Italy’s Ballando con le Stelle, the Italian equivalent of Dancing with the Stars.
