Strictly Come Dancing bullying verdict as BBC apologises to Amanda Abbington - but clears Giovanni of most serious charges
The BBC has apologised to former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Amanda Abbington, saying it had assessed and “upheld some, but not all” of her complaints about Giovanni Pernice’s behaviour during her time on the show.The findings of the investigation into alleged misconduct by the former Strictly dancer, 33, were released today.
After an investigation lasting six months following Amanda's claims, there were no findings relating to physical aggression, but complaints of verbal bullying and harassment were upheld, the report today confirmed.
Sherlock actress Amanda pulled out of the BBC One show last year citing “personal reasons”, later claimed she was subject to a “toxic environment” and “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying”.
The review into Amanda’s complaints about Giovanni was launched earlier this year. Giovanni, who is not part of this year’s Strictly professional dancing line-up and has since joined the Italian version of the dance show, previously rejected “any claim of threatening or abusive behaviour”.
