Amanda Abbington Reveals ‘Horrible’ and ‘Brutal’ Strictly Experience

Amanda Abbington has opened up about her challenging experience on “Strictly Come Dancing,” describing it as “tough” and “horrible.” The “Sherlock” actress, who exited the show weeks into the 2023 series, has become a focal point of controversy after alleging behind-the-scenes misconduct by the BBC dancing competition.

Abbington requested what was described as “tense” footage of her rehearsals with her dance partner Pernice. This request has sparked an investigation that ultimately led to the firing of professional dancer Graziano Di Prima, just weeks after his return to the upcoming series had been announced.

In her first in-depth interview about the ordeal, Abbington told The Sunday Times, “I’ve had the worst experience. The show was tough and horrible, but the aftermath of it I was not expecting. It’s been really brutal and it just hasn’t stopped.” She elaborated, saying, “It’s been awful, just relentless. Death threats and rape threats for just standing up for something that I thought was wrong.”

The actress explained why she felt compelled to speak out: “When I’m in a rehearsal room, I make sure it’s a place where everyone feels safe and feels like they’re having a nice time. And that courtesy wasn’t extended to me.”

Abbington also clarified that her departure from the show was not due to issues with Pernice, as some had speculated. The actress did experience a “medical scare,” which was mentioned in her exit statement, but she said she was “grateful to be given a reason to escape.”

In March, it was reported that “Good Morning Britain” host Ranvir Singh and former “Love Island” presenter Laura Whitmore had a “tearful summit” with Abbington about their “difficult experiences” working with Pernice, who is known for being intense during training.

Earlier this month, “Strictly Come Dancing” revealed its professional dancers for 2024, and Pernice was notably absent from the list. Despite repeated requests for comment, the BBC urged people “not to indulge in speculation.” However, the investigation into Pernice’s behavior eventually led to Di Prima’s dismissal.

On Saturday, July 13, Di Prima disclosed that he had been axed from the show due to “events” he “deeply regrets.” Allegations regarding Di Prima’s conduct during rehearsals with TV star Zara McDermott in last year’s series are said to have played a role in his removal, although McDermott did not make the allegations herself.

Producers recently invited McDermott to discuss her experience with them. Footage that allegedly showed Di Prima’s treatment of McDermott reportedly “reduced those who have seen it to tears,” according to a source who spoke to The Sun.

Source: The Sunday Times, The Sun