Amanda Abbington says 'a significant reason' some Giovanni complaints not upheld

Amanda Abbington appeared on Newsnight this evening

Amanda Abbington addressed the verdict of the BBC's internal investigation into allegations about her Strictly Come Dancing dance partner Giovanni Pernice's behaviour in rehearsals.

She said on Newsnight tonight: "It's nice. It's a relief that they've apologised." She added that nearly half of her complaints were upheld but said there is a "significant reason" some complaints weren't upheld and her team will be investigating further.

She said it was "ongoing litany of being verbally abused" by Giovanni and a 35 minute "rant" at her, including name-calling. Amanda said she is "open to criticism" and "doesn't make problems or trouble where there isn't any".

Sherlock star Amanda, 50, previously said that she complained about dancer Giovanni, 33, whom she was partnered with on the show last year. She made allegations of "bullying" and "aggressive behaviour," with Giovanni - who is no longer on the show - denying "abusive or threatening behaviour". The BBC launched an internal investigation and the results were released earlier this week following the launch of the latest series.

Amanda’s appearance on Newsnight this evening comes as it's claimed the actress could sue the BBC. The BBC expressed regret to Amanda after confirming some of the grievances levied at the renowned Italian dancer, acknowledging six of the 17 issues she brought forward during her time twirling on the dance floor.

The probe uncovered moments of "inappropriate behaviour of sexual banter in the workplace" including an incident where Pernice made an improper signal clear violation of the BBC codes. In reflecting on the BBCs proclamation, Amanda emphasised that coming forward "was not an easy thing to do".

Meanwhile, the BBC asserted: "Strictly Come Dancing is a family show and we rightly expect very high standards. While competition can be tough, rigorous and demanding, we want the show to ultimately be a joyous and transformative experience."

"It is a great shame if this hasn't been the case for everyone who has appeared on the show. We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all. We want to apologise to Amanda Abbington and to thank her for coming forward and taking part. We know this would not have been an easy thing to do."

A source reportedly close to Amanda said earlier this week: "Amanda is delighted and relieved, and feels her decision to speak out and complain has been rewarded. She hopes other celebrities might come forward now, safe in the knowledge they, too, will be listened to."

The source told The Sun that Amanda "has been through hell" and "lost work" as a result of going public with her claims and "is "considering taking further" action against the BBC for damages and loss of earnings. The source said that Amanda "suffered enormously" and was diagnosed with PTSD, adding that she feels the BBC "breached its duty of care guidelines by not protecting her sooner".

The source said it's hard to "put a figure on how much she could expect" if things went her way, but it was speculated that it could be up to £300,000. The source described the prospect as the the BBC's "worst nightmare" after a "costly investigation" and potential reputational damange for Strictly.

A representative for Giovanni said: "We are pleased this six-month review has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour. Giovanni is relieved that the overwhelming majority of allegations put to the BBC have not been upheld and looks forward to continuing his work on Dancing With The Stars in Italy this season."

Since waving goodbye to Strictly in May, Giovanni has snagged a spot on Italy's Dancing With The Stars, teaming up with Bianca Guaccero. Showbiz insiders are buzzing about the possibility of Giovanni making an unexpected return to Strictly, but those close to him hint that he's still smarting from previous ordeals.
A friend revealed: "Giovanni feels he was thrown to the wolves, and is very bruised by some of the claims made by previous partners against him. He has always maintained his innocence so right now the thought of going back to Strictly seems outlandish."
"Only four allegations against him were upheld for bullying, plus two sexual complaints, but he feels there was context to these, and he was only ever joking. Not to belittle Amanda's experience, which is valid, but Giovanni feels like he could have been supported better too." The 20th anniversary show of Strictly kicked off on September 14, with chaperones now a fixture during rehearsals.