BBC Issues Apology to Amanda Abbington Amid Allegations Against Giovanni Pernice

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has offered an apology to former ‘Strictly Come Dancing‘ contestant Amanda Abbington after partially upholding her complaints against dance partner Giovanni Pernice. The broadcaster stated that while some of her grievances were affirmed, the most severe allegations, including physical aggression, were not substantiated.

Amanda Abbington, who is widely recognized for her role in ‘Sherlock‘, withdrew from the 2023 series of the popular BBC One dance competition, citing “personal reasons”. Subsequently, she alleged experiencing what she described as a “toxic environment” and “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying” during her participation in the show.

The BBC conducted a review of Abbington’s formal complaint earlier this year. In its statement, the corporation explained that certain claims involving verbal bullying and harassment by Pernice were upheld after the review. However, allegations concerning physical aggression did not stand.

Giovanni Pernice, currently not a part of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ and performing on Italy’s ‘Ballando con le Stelle’, has denied all accusations of threatening or abusive behavior. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the most serious claims against him were dismissed, thus bringing closure to a “torrid” period in his life.

Abbington, reacting to the apology from the BBC, expressed that it served as a “vindication” of her complaint. She acknowledged the broadcaster for recognizing that the measures implemented to support and protect contestants had been “not enough”. Abbington extended hope that others might now feel empowered to come forward with their experiences of harassment or bullying.

Charlotte Moore, Chief Content Officer of the BBC, personally apologized to Abbington. She addressed the threats and online abuse that Abbington reported receiving following her complaint. The BBC confirmed that it was looking into 17 complaints, with six being upheld, though further specific details were not disclosed due to the confidentiality of the complaints process.

The broadcaster has introduced new protocols, including chaperones in rehearsal spaces and appointing additional welfare producers, aiming to reinforce contestant safety. The move follows a commitment by the BBC to avoid recurrence of such incidents.

The latest season of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ began airing on BBC One earlier this month, without Pernice in the lineup of professional dancers.