EXCLUSIVE: Amanda Abbington quit Strictly Come Dancing after competing for five weeks. Later, the Sherlock actress complained to BBC bosses that she had endured weeks of inappropriate behaviour.
Amanda Abbington is said to be concerned that the BBC’s investigation is “being rushed” ahead of the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
It comes as her dance partner Giovanni Pernice was dropped from the show over claims of misconduct – allegations the professional dancer has vehemently denied.
The Sherlock star, 51, revealed she was diagnosed with PSTD after her stint on the show and had received death threats.
The actress fears the BBC wrapping up the investigation before all of her concerns have been addressed.
A source close to Amanda told Express.co.uk: “The BBC want to tell Giovanni and Amanda the outcome of their investigation next week. They are keen to ensure it doesn’t overshadow the new series and that they can look to move on.
“Amanda is concerned, however, that the investigation is being rushed and won’t answer all the concerns she has raised.”
They added Amanda is “overwhelmed by messages of support” including from former female contestants all with a similar message: “We support you”.
Earlier this week, the on-screen star spoke publicly for the first time about her Strictly experience, branding it “brutal”.
She gave a tell-all interview in which she claimed there are “50 hours” of rehearsal footage that left BBC producers “horrified” by partner Giovanni’s alleged behaviour.
On Tuesday afternoon (23 July), BBC director general Tim Davie made a statement apologising for the alleged mistreatment of contestants on the show, and said the corporation “will never tolerate unacceptable behaviour”.
Amanda has said she does not want Strictly to end as a result of the scandal.
The Sherlock star stated: “I love Strictly, I always wanted to do that show. I think it’s a beautiful British institution. Most people on that show are wonderful and I’ve made some good friends on that show, I don’t want it to end.
“I want it to have a beautiful extended life because it’s Saturday night entertainment.”
However, Amanda said she “would like an apology” over her alleged mistreatment by pro dancer Giovanni, adding: “I would like this to not happen to women working in that corporation again and for it to be taken seriously.”
Giovanni vehemently denied allegations of abusive behaviour in statements posted on social media.
He said allegations were “simply false” and denied “any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour”.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
Source: Tampa Bay Times
