24 Jul 2024 Amanda Abbington on Strictly experience – full interview Krishnan Guru-Murthy Presenter The actor Amanda Abbington says she first complained to the BBC about her dance partner Giovanni Pernice within days of starting Strictly Come Dancing. She then pulled out in week six – citing “personal reasons”. Months later, an ongoing investigation into complaints about his alleged teaching methods led to him being left out of the 2024 series line-up.
Now she is speaking out publicly, accusing him of “abusive, cruel and mean” behaviour. Giovanni Pernice has consistently denied wrongdoing, and tonight a spokesperson told us that he refutes any claim of threatening or abusive behaviour, while the BBC says it takes duty of care extremely seriously. But Amanda Abbington says she and her family are now being subjected to “brutal, relentless and unforgiving” abuse by Strictly fans.
She is about to appear in a new play, about the aftermath of abuse in a family, called “When it Happens to You” at the Park Theatre in London. Krishnan met her there at rehearsals. Krishnan Guru-Murthy: Amanda, it’s very nice to see you.
I haven’t seen you since week 5 I think...
Amanda Abbington: I know. Krishnan Guru-Murthy: ..
.of Strictly. And here you are in north London, doing a play called ‘When It Happens to You’.
Amanda Abbington: Yes. Krishnan Guru-Murthy: When you are right in the middle of it all happening to you. Amanda Abbington: Yes, yes, but it’s very cathart.