The BBC is set to release its report today into the Strictly Come Dancing controversy involving Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington.
After months of anticipation following Amanda’s allegations about Giovanni’s conduct on the show, the findings are expected to be made public this Monday afternoon. This comes just weeks after the hit BBC series celebrated its 20th anniversary with a return to our screens.
Amanda has accused Giovanni, 34, of bullying her during their practice sessions, which lasted four months. She criticised his teaching approach and labelled his actions as “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean”.
However, Giovanni has strongly refuted all accusations levelled against him.
In a candid interview, Amanda likened her experience on the show to being “in the trenches”, revealing to Channel 4 News that BBC producers were “horrified” by footage that supported her claims of “humiliating behaviour of a sexual nature”, reports the Mirror.
The 50-year-old actress withdrew from the competition early, despite participating for several weeks.
Furthermore, Amanda disclosed that she has been diagnosed with mild PTSD following her stint on Strictly. A recent source informed The Sun that the publication of the report was postponed due to the Huw Edwards case, stating: “The process has taken longer than many in the Corporation wanted, but there are reasons for that.”
The source disclosed regarding the BBC: “They’re still reeling from the fallout of the Huw Edwards scandal so they didn’t want to be juggling two major crises at the same time.”
However, while the results of the report might be communicated to the parties involved, the details are expected to largely remain confidential, with copies of the reports set to be distributed strictly to “Amanda, Giovanni and their legal teams”.
The insider cautioned that even though BBC chiefs are hoping the report’s conclusions will close the chapter, it’s “very unlikely” that this case is finished. They continued: “Whatever the outcome, neither Giovanni nor Amanda are likely to be content so the BBC are preparing for possible appeals.”
After exiting the show, she initially cited health reasons for her abrupt departure. Post the new year, more information came to light, prompting her to lodge a formal complaint against the Strictly programme, alleging harmful behaviour allegations he has contested.
Concurrently, Giovanni has been wowing judges on Italy’s version of Strictly. Coming through the controversy, he has joined the cast of Ballando con le Stelle, teaming up with actress Bianca Guaccero.
He received an impressive score from the judges, raking in 37 out of a potential 40 points.
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