Amanda Abbington Claims, 'I Don’t Create Problems or Trouble' in Shocking Strictly Interview

Actor Amanda Abbington recently stated she's "open to criticism" while reflecting on the BBC's internal investigation concerning her claims related to her experience on Strictly Come Dancing. At the charming age of 50, Amanda had previously disclosed her discontent after her time on the show, specifically regarding her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice, who is the sprightly age of 33.

Allegations of "bullying" and "aggressive behavior" were volleyed back and forth, with Giovanni firmly denying any "abusive or threatening behavior." One can only imagine the tension in the room. At one point during Amanda’s tell-all interview, Victoria Derbyshire read Giovanni's prior statement, which, like all good public relations, was wrapped in just enough ambiguity to keep everyone guessing: “We are unable to comment further, and the BBC has asked both parties to respect confidentiality.” Ah, the sweet sound of corporate jargon!

In an investigative ballet that took the BBC quite some time to execute, the organization ultimately concluded that, while Giovanni was not found physically abusive, Amanda's complaints about verbal bullying and harassment hit closer to home. Out of a whopping 17 allegations made against Mr. Pernice, it turns out six were upheld. This feels like a convoluted plot twist straight out of a much-missed soap opera.

As Amanda graced the stage on Newsnight this Wednesday, she shared that she'd faced an "ongoing litany" of not-so-gentle interactions—think verbal abuse, sexual innuendo, and gestures that would leave anyone feeling rather sitcom-worthy. She recounted a particularly stormy afternoon involving a 35-minute “rant” leveled at her that would have made any seasoned therapist raise an eyebrow.

Speaking to Victoria, Amanda recalled, "This went on for y'know, seven hours a day for seven weeks." Seven weeks! That’s a considerable investment of time to feel uncomfortable in a place most envision as glitter and glam. "There were pockets of time when it was okay and we got on," she said, capturing the confusion one often feels in toxic environments. "You never really knew where you were from one minute to the next." Much like a bad first date, it seems.

When pressed by Victoria on how she would handle potential criticism regarding her claims, Amanda replied, "I'm open to criticism. I can be criticised all the live long day, but it was..." before Victoria chimed in, prompting a flurry of words that certainly felt like they deserved their own sound effects. "So this is not just normal criticism in the working environment?" Victoria pressed.

To which Amanda firmly stated, “No. I don’t create trouble where there isn’t any. I've worked 32 years as an actress and I have never had to leave a job or experience anything like I did in that rehearsal room.” A subtle reminder that real-life drama often overshadows the scripted variety.

The BBC, in a lengthy statement that could have easily turned into a Shakespearean soliloquy, expressed their commitment to addressing bullying and harassment seriously, saying: “We rightly expect high standards... It's a great shame if this hasn’t been the case for everyone on the show.” Applauding Amanda for her courage to speak up was part of their script, too—because who doesn’t love a good Hollywood redemption arc?

Amanda's heart did a little jig when she heard the BBC's apology, claiming it meant "a lot" to her. “Today's apology from the BBC is a vindication of my complaint,” she noted, her words echoing the sentiments not just for herself but others who may have suffered in silence. How poetic, and yet how dreadful that this kind of validation is even necessary!

Meanwhile, Giovanni, no longer gracing the Strictly stage, found his own way to speak to his followers through a video, saying, “Reading stuff that was untrue wasn’t the nicest time of my life, let’s be honest.” A dramatic use of "let’s be honest" that could rival any daytime talk show moment. “But today I’m happy because none of the serious allegations have been upheld.” A sigh of relief, perhaps?

In his written statement, a spokesperson for Giovanni added, “We are pleased that this six-month review has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behavior.” Ah, the joy of public statements—where the truth is often woven more delicately than any dance partner’s pirouette.

So here we are, with a bittersweet ending that leaves one wondering if there’s a silver lining, a lesson learned, or simply another chapter to keep our eyes peeled for in the ever-dramatic saga of reality television.