Amanda Abbington: Strictly Fans’ Threats Are ‘Brutal, Relentless, Unforgiving’

Amanda Abbington has revealed that she has faced significant pressure and threats from fans of the Strictly Come Dancing program. The Sherlock actress has previously accused her Strictly partner, Giovanni Pernice, of abusive teaching methods, which Pernice has denied.

In an interview with Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy, who also competed in the series, Abbington became emotional when describing the threats she has received. She clarified that she was referring to “rape threats towards not only myself, but my daughter and the threats of death to my son.” When asked if these threats came from Strictly fans, she agreed and also pointed out that some were supporters of Pernice.

Abbington is using her platform to encourage people who feel bullied or are in toxic and unsafe situations to complain, despite the backlash they might face. She emphasized that she is neither sensational nor hysterical, and stated that what happened to her in the training room was unacceptable. She complained, but says she has not been taken seriously.

The actress stressed the need for a society where individuals can voice their discomfort and have it addressed. She wishes to stand up for anyone who feels they don’t have a voice, championing their cause and providing support.

Abbington also mentioned that she knows of three other women who had similar experiences during their time on Strictly Come Dancing, and hinted that more people might come forward. She said there are several other complainants, but hers is the official one.

After leaving the show, Abbington received messages from some producers, but then experienced silence. She noted the lack of after-care and said it would have been nice to receive some form of support.

Regarding allegations about video footage, Abbington claimed there are 50 hours of video from training room cameras, installed after she raised concerns. She alleges that BBC producers were shocked and horrified after reviewing the footage, but she couldn’t provide more details due to the ongoing review.

Abbington accused Pernice of bullying and aggressive behavior, and shared that former dance partners of Pernice told her “I’m so sorry” when they found out she was partnered with him. She also mentioned that Graziano Di Prima left the show after similar allegations regarding his treatment of Love Island star Zara McDermott.

BBC director-general Tim Davie apologized to contestants who had negative experiences and assured that the show would return with appropriate safeguarding and duty of care measures. He emphasized that the show must foster competitiveness and hard work, but never cross acceptable behavior lines.

Abbington expressed relief that Davie acknowledged the issues and said she loves Strictly. She feels sad she couldn’t fulfill her journey, unlike others who had a positive experience. Rehearsals for the new series began, and professionals like Johannes Radebe, Amy Dowden, and Dianne Buswell appeared enthusiastic as they arrived at a London dance studio for practice.

In response to the issues raised, the BBC announced new measures to strengthen welfare and support on the show, including the presence of a chaperone during all training sessions. Abbington, diagnosed with mild PTSD, withdrew from the competition in week six, citing personal reasons, which she has now detailed as issues with the show.

Former contestant and Paralympian Will Bayley also revealed he suffered a severe injury during rehearsals and claimed that producers did not provide proper care. His torn knee ligaments forced him to leave the series in 2019, and he mentioned that he felt blamed for his injury after producers encouraged a dangerous move.

The BBC stated that complaints are managed with confidentiality and a fair process, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to duty of care. They urged against speculation and assured that processes are continuously updated to enhance welfare on the show.

A spokesperson for Pernice stated they are cooperating with the BBC’s review process and urged respect for the process by not speaking to the media. The spokesperson maintained that the allegations shared by the BBC do not match Abbington’s latest claims. Pernice denies any abusive behavior and believes the review will support his stance.

For more details, Abbington’s full interview is available on Channel4.com and its YouTube channel.

Source: Channel 4, BBC