Nick Knowles, 61, ‘joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims’

Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'

As a seasoned broadcaster with a rich background in media and entertainment, I can’t help but feel deeply saddened by the recent turn of events surrounding the BBC’s flagship dance show, Strictly Come Dancing. Having had my own experience with the program and the alleged bullying I faced there, I find myself compelled to speak up about this issue from a place of personal understanding.


According to reports, Nick Knowles is set to be part of the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, as the program faces increasing allegations of abuse and misconduct.

After several lengthy negotiations with producers, the DIY SOS celebrity, aged 61, decided to join the show. Insiders suggest that he is eager and open-minded, ready to tackle any challenge that comes his way.

Previously, Nick displayed his dancing abilities at a rugby game with friend Ben Shephard, as captured in an Instagram update from March. This prompted a fan to speculate if he might be joining Strictly Come Dancing.

A source told The Sun: ‘Nick has always loved Strictly and he is so excited.

I believe this individual possesses a remarkable personality, marked by charisma and charm. His unyielding determination and competitive spirit are truly inspiring. With each new challenge that comes his way, he approaches it fearlessly, ready to dive in headfirst and give it his all. The richness of his life experiences has no doubt shaped him into the resilient and tenacious person he is today.

Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'

Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'

‘He’s going on the show to entertain and to win. He’ll give it his best shot.’

TopMob has contacted representatives for the BBC and Nick Knowles for comment.

Previously, Nick collaborated with professional dancers Katya Jones and Luba Mushtuk from “Strictly Come Dancing” on an episode of DIY SOS. Together, they revamped a performing arts school located in North Tyneside.

Last year, the presenter shared the news of his engagement to Katie Dadzie. Previously, during discussions among fans about Molly Rainford being among those at risk of elimination from Strictly while footballer Tony Adams was spared, he expressed his opinions on the topic.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: I believe when it comes to BBC Strictly, it’s essential to remember that it’s more than just a dancing competition. It’s an entertainment show, and the focus is on enjoying the experience, learning new skills, and growing as individuals – not merely about who has the most formal dance training.

‘It’s the one who connects with the audience that wins.

Previously, it was announced that Jamie Borthwick from EastEnders and popular social media personality Grace Keeling, also known as GK Barry, are among the names joining the cast of the new series.

After Amanda Abbington accused sacked dancer Giovanni Pernice of attempting to prevent the broadcast of up to 50 hours of potentially harmful footage, Strictly faced an additional crisis.

Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'
Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'

In her recent interview, the actress described the dance competition as “as grueling as a trench experience” to Channel 4 News. She shared that BBC producers reportedly reacted with shock upon viewing footage containing allegations of sexually humiliating conduct.

Amanda asserts that Giovanni allegedly prevented her lawyers from obtaining the relevant video evidence following producers’ decision to install cameras in the dance studio due to Amanda’s prior expressions of worry.

Some prominent dancers on the television program have been under scrutiny for reportedly mistreating past famous contestants. Recently, dancer Graziano Di Prima was let go from the production team due to allegations involving him and Zara McDermott, as potentially incriminating footage has surfaced.

She shared with Krishnan Guru-Murthy that a significant amount of video content, totaling 50 hours, has been restricted from public view. That’s quite a substantial amount of footage and time spent in an unhealthy environment.

Based on my personal experience and observation, I believe there’s a hidden truth regarding what transpired in that room. There are evident pieces of proof out there, and I, for one, am not obstructing anyone from accessing it. I have always encouraged transparency and invited everyone to witness the facts. However, Giovanni seems reluctant, which raises suspicion if he truly has nothing to conceal.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: During our first week of rehearsals for the production, I brought up my concerns to the producers about the intrusive presence of cameras in our studio. To my surprise, they informed me that they intended to monitor our progress each week by reviewing the footage. I found this news disconcerting and felt it was an invasion of privacy.

Giovanni had claimed he had asked for the cameras, which Amanda says is untrue.

In the first week, I brought up my worries to the producers, she shared, holding back her tears.

“Giovanni claimed he requested the cameras, but I’m certain he didn’t as I was informed by the producers that they would install cameras for evaluating the progress at the end of the week.”

After approximately five Fridays, the producer would tell me on Fridays, “We’ve reviewed the footage, and we’re deeply distressed and apologetic.”

‘That was to my face on the Friday when we would go in and do the camera rehearsal.’

During the interview, Guru-Murthy, who appeared in the 2023 production as well, inquired if it was true that Amanda had endured “sexually humiliating treatment.” With great difficulty, Amanda managed a nod while fighting back tears in response.

‘Yeah. I mean, you know, one of the many things,’ she said, clarifying it was not harassment.

Since the accusations surfaced, Giovanni has consistently refused them, asserting that he gave the BBC investigators a folder filled with proof and is absolutely certain of his innocence.

After Amanda gave her interview, we were challenged again to refute her assertions. The BBC has passed on to us the accusations they’ve verified.

In their own words, neither the actions nor the accusations made by Amanda to Channel 4 align with what Giovanni did or said. He denies any involvement in threatening or abusive behavior towards her.

After the controversy, Amanda stated that no one from the BBC reached out to her once more, expressing: “I haven’t exchanged words with anyone from the BBC following Strictly.”

‘No one from the BBC has reached out to me since Strictly, either through me or my lawyer.’

In a message to those in charge of the BBC show that has been running since 2004 she added: ‘Just be aware of what’s going on and when you know it’s going on, nip it in the bud. Don’t allow it to continue.’

Nick Knowles, 61, 'joins the Strictly lineup after months of talks with bosses as the scandal-hit show continues to battle abuse claims'

I’ve had my fair share of confrontational encounters, with some passionate Strictly viewers and devoted supporters of Giovanni expressing their disapproval towards me in rather aggressive terms. They’ve questioned me on how I could potentially harm something as beloved as Strictly.

She shared with Channel 4 the severity of the harassment she experienced from online bullies over the past few months, describing it as “extremely harsh, continuous, and merciless.”

A shocking interview surfaces just as BBC One’s popular program faces controversy, resulting in both Giovanni and dance partner Graziano Di Prima leaving.

Giovanni was accused of bullying by Amanda as well as two other, unnamed contestants.

Last week, Zasra McDermott’s allegation against Graziano surfaced, leading to his termination from the show. The accusations included kicking, hitting, and spitting during rehearsals the previous year.

On Taylor, athlete and Paralympics champion Will Bayley shared his experiences on the program.

In 2019, a 36-year-old contestant partnered with Janette Manrara expressed that he sustained seriously injurious impacts when required to rehearse a leap once again within a performance, and he voiced concerns over the show’s responsibility towards contestants’ wellbeing.

He told BBC Breakfast that if the BBC manages to involve individuals with disabilities, they must provide adequate support and ensure their safety.

I’ve raised this issue before on numerous occasions, but it seemed to fall on deaf ears until recently when other similar stories emerged, making my own more noticeable.

Should someone sustain a similar knee injury as mine, it would leave a lasting impact on their life. I, myself, am not able to fully recover from this injury and must continuously manage its effects.

Channel 4’s interview with Amanda comes at a time when BBC leaders are reportedly angry over the probe into her complaint about Strictly.

One source close to the BBC shared with TopMob that Amanda appears determined to leave a lingering shadow of controversy over Strictly.

From my perspective as a lifestyle expert, I’ve noticed that she appears to struggle with the show. She’s been vocal about her displeasure, but why dampen the enjoyment of others? Instead, perhaps she could find ways to make the experience more enjoyable for herself or even step back and give the show another chance. After all, everyone’s tastes are different, and what doesn’t resonate with one person might be a favorite for another.

Based on my personal experience working as a investigative journalist, I can tell you that when there seems to be a lack of solid evidence in a complaint against someone, like in the case of this woman and her allegations against Giovanni, things can get messy and protracted. In such situations, the person making the complaint may choose to rally support from others who have had similar experiences or who hold relevant information. This can lead to a snowball effect, with more people coming forward and adding their stories to the mix. The media often gets wind of these developments and reports on them, keeping the issue alive in the public consciousness. So, what initially appeared to be a straightforward complaint turns into an ongoing saga that can last for weeks or even months.

On Taylor’s third day, Tim Davies, the head of the BBC, expressed concern and stated apologetically, “I’m truly disappointed if anyone had a less-than-favorable experience on Strictly.”

We acknowledge the importance of considering such matters, and we apologize if anyone felt uncomfortable or had concerns. If someone has experienced an issue and wishes to discuss it further, please don’t hesitate to bring it up with us. We assure you that we will listen attentively and take appropriate action.

Mr. Davie commented, “The excitement and amusement don’t come without effort and rivalry. We strive to succeed, which is an essential aspect of this production.”

Based on my personal experiences and interactions with people, I strongly believe that while there is room for error, growth, and learning, there are definite boundaries that should never be crossed. Crossing these lines can lead to harmful consequences, not just for individuals but also for communities as a whole. From my perspective, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of unacceptable behavior, be it verbal abuse, physical violence, or any other form of disrespect. It’s essential that we hold ourselves and others accountable for our actions and strive to treat each other with kindness, empathy, and respect at all times. In my opinion, this approach not only creates a more harmonious environment but also fosters personal growth and positive relationships.

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2024-07-25 02:24

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