Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice were partnered together on Strictly (Image: BBC)

BBC Strictly announces huge changes in wake of Amanda Abbington bullying claims

The BBC has said it will tackle 'abusive behaviour' in its workplace, in an apparent response to the Strictly Come Dancing bullying scandal involving Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice.

by · Daily Record

In a significant victory for Amanda Abbington, the BBC has pledged to address "abusive behaviour" following the bullying scandal on Strictly Come Dancing. A new investigation into the corporation's "workplace culture" has been launched, with the aim of clamping down on "abuse of power".

This development comes after a lengthy probe into Amanda's allegations of "cruel and mean behaviour" by her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, which he strongly denied, causing chaos on the popular show. Although the BBC apologised to Amanda last month, Giovanni was cleared of the most serious allegations.

BBC Chair Samir Shah stated: "I cannot emphasise enough that I am fully committed to tackling inappropriate or abusive behaviour. For most of us it is a joy to work for the BBC and that should be the case for everyone.

"Nobody working in the BBC should ever feel fear or worry while working here.

"What is clear to me is that we must ensure the BBC is a safe, secure and welcoming workplace for everyone."

The BBC's investigation aims to "ensure the consequences of inappropriate behaviour and abuse of power are understood by everyone". A spokesperson announced that the corporation plans to publish a report next spring, reports the Express.

Latest Strictly news

The findings of the investigation into Amanda's bullying allegations were released in September, just weeks into the new series of Strictly, which returned without Giovanni, who had quit the show in May.

The BBC has responded to claims of bullying and harassment, emphasising that they take such allegations "very seriously" and pointing out that their investigation into Abbington's claims was particularly lengthy "due to its complex nature" and the necessity of ensuring "a rigorous and robust process".

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The report upholds six of Pernice's alleged misconducts from a total of 17 charges levelled against him. However, it explicitly states there was no aggressive or physical confrontation between Giovanni and Amanda.

The broadcaster issued a statement: "We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made," adding an apology to Amanda and expressing gratitude for her courage in coming forward, acknowledging the difficulty of speaking out.

Amanda celebrated the BBC's apology as a "vindication" of her stance and expressed hope that it will give others the confidence to believe they will be heard when raising similar issues.

Giovanni expressed relief upon learning that the more severe accusations of him being menacing and abusive "were found not to be true". Amanda departed from the show last October citing a diagnosis of PTSD after her experience on Strictly.

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