Amanda Abbington has expressed profound disappointment with BBC executives, alleging that they may be “protecting” Giovanni Pernice amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of bullying on Strictly Come Dancing. Abbington’s concerns reflect a broader sense of dissatisfaction with the handling of the probe, as she questions the network’s commitment to addressing the issue transparently and fairly.
Amanda Abbington has conveyed her deep disappointment with BBC executives, expressing concerns that they may be “protecting” Giovanni Pernice amidst the ongoing bullying investigation. Her remarks highlight fears about the impartiality and effectiveness of the probe.
Amanda Abbington, 50, known for her role in Sherlock, has leveled serious accusations against her professional partner Giovanni Pernice, criticizing his teaching methods as “unnecessary, abusive, cruel, and mean.” Pernice has strongly denied all allegations.
The report on the investigation has been completed and is expected to be published shortly.
A friend of Abbington’s told The Sun: “She’s deeply disappointed with the BBC, feeling that it operates like a ‘boys’ club.’ She believes that the prolonged duration of the probe and the perceived protection of Giovanni reflect a disregard for her experience and that of other women who have come forward with their own accounts.”
“Amanda feels exhausted, upset, and extremely angry about the handling of the situation. She is concerned that the outcome may be a predictable whitewash, potentially leaving others to endure similar aggression and abuse.”
Newsafro.com has reached out to both Amanda Abbington and the BBC for comment.
This follows revelations that Amanda has found the BBC’s line of questioning
during the ongoing misconduct investigation to be “highly offensive.”
The actress has been questioned a second time about an illicit video allegedly shared with her by the dancer, Giovanni Pernice, and a “lewd remark” he reportedly made about another celebrity contestant in connection with the video.
Pernice is also said to have made a crude comment about a member of Amanda’s family, leading to her being asked by BBC executives if the remark might have been intended as light-hearted banter.
A source told The Sun that Amanda found this line of questioning “highly offensive.” Regarding the alleged video, the source added, “The BBC cannot ignore the fact that the video was sent; there appears to be a trail of evidence.”
“Even if it is determined that the footage was shared with innocent intentions, the BBC is concerned that it could still represent a breach of conduct as outlined in the contract provided to professional dancers.”
A BBC spokesperson stated, “As previously mentioned, we will not be commenting on individuals or engaging in speculation.”
Amanda Abbington shares a daughter, Grace, and a son, Joe, with her former partner Martin Freeman, 52. The couple was together for 16 years, from 2000 to 2016.
