All the stars who struggled on Strictly: As Zara McDermott and Amanda Abbington call out their ‘abusive’ pro partners, a look at the celebs who suffered physical and mental harm on the show amid misconduct scandal
As someone who has followed the world of Strictly Come Dancing for years, I can’t help but be shocked and dismayed by the recent revelations regarding Brendan Cole’s behavior towards his celebrity partners during his time on the show. Having watched him dance with various celebrities over the years, it’s hard to reconcile the image of a demanding and sometimes abusive partner behind the scenes.
The BBC is under increasing criticism as more celebrities share their experiences with Strictly Come Dancing, adding to the growing controversy surrounding the show.
Last year, Amanda Abbington brought up allegations of misconduct against Giovanni Pernice, stating that his demanding and harsh training methods had left her with PTSD-like symptoms.
After the public controversy surrounding Amanda’s bullying incident, Zara McDermott felt compelled to share her own past experiences with Graziano Di Prima during rehearsals.
On Thursdays, Graizano issued a public apology after being let go from the BBC program for having kicked Zara. He described his harmful actions towards her as an unwanted mistake.
In the past, footage of ex-dancing partners and their famous companions has reemerged. For instance, there are recordings from 2005 showing Brendan Cole hitting Fiona Phillips’ behind three times during rehearsals.
The BBC may have to pay £1million in legal fees due to the misconduct scandal, and some insiders express concern that mounting accusations might ultimately lead to the cancellation of the show.
In this article, TopMob explores the experiences of celebrities who have reportedly suffered physically and mentally during their time on Strictly Come Dancing.
Zara McDermott
In 2023 rehearsals for the show, the ex-Love Island celebrity, aged 27, experienced being struck and kicked by her previous dance partner, Graziano Di Prima. (Or) During preparations for the show in 2023, the former Love Island contestant, 27, encountered repeated hits and kicks from her past dance partner, Graziano Di Prima.
Earlier this week the pro dancer, 30, who has now moved back to his native country in Italy following his sacking, admitted to kicking Zara in a public statement.
As a lifestyle expert, I would rephrase Mark Borkowski’s statement as follows: “I, Mark Borkowski, speaking on behalf of Graziano, want to make it clear that there is absolutely no justification for resorting to violence, such as kicking. We both understand that this was a mistake. And he has already issued an apology for his actions.”
According to news articles, Mark mentioned: “However, he fails to identify some of the controversies linked to it. The portrayals of the situation as depicted in online comments, contrast sharply with his own recollections.”
Graziano has chosen to disconnect himself from civilization, a decision I believe his wife endorses as he deals with his mental health concerns.
Last week, the BBC discovered a video featuring Graziano, who previously thought the issue had been settled, and consequently terminated his position on the show due to this newly uncovered information.
In a post on Instagram about his departure from “Strictly,” Graziano expressed deep regret over the circumstances that led to his leaving. His strong drive and commitment to winning may have influenced his approach to training.
‘Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it’s best for the show that I step away.’
Based on my personal experiences and observations, I believe that the speaker is going through a challenging time in his life, possibly facing some difficult external circumstances that he is unable to disclose at the moment. Despite this, he is prioritizing the wellbeing of his loved ones and staying strong for them. It takes great courage and resilience to keep pushing forward amidst adversity, especially when one cannot share the full burden with others. I admire the speaker’s commitment to being there for those who matter most to him during this trying time.
‘I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.’
In closing his post, he expressed gratitude towards all those who have aided him in his professional and personal growth. At an appropriate moment, he intends to disclose his own experiences.
Since then, images of Zara training have resurfaced, showing her with just three toenails remaining, her feet appearing bleeding and unconscious, lying on the floor.
On Tuesday, Zara finally spoke up, confessing that she had been apprehensive about reporting Graziano due to concerns for her own future.
On Instagram as well, she expressed: “I believed it was important to share my thoughts about the latest news. Strictly is an enchanting television program for me, a show I’ve longed to be a part of since my childhood.”
Receiving an invitation to join the show as a contestant brought back memories of my childhood dreams. I knew Strictly would require immense dedication and effort, and I was ready to invest all my energy into making it a success. As a tenacious individual, I was fully prepared to put in whatever it took to make my dream a reality.
My time on Strictly was more wonderful than I ever imagined. The entire production crew, those working behind the scenes, and my fellow contestants were all fantastic to collaborate with.
Despite the positive portrayal outside, my time in the training room felt quite contrary. There have been allegations concerning my behavior on the program, with eyewitnesses and footage documenting certain occurrences that are deeply upsetting to view.
Zara explained that she didn’t report the incidents at the time as she was ‘scared’ of backlash.
Zara went on in her speech, expressing her apprehensions: I’ve struggled with the anxiety of sharing my story; the possibility of negative reactions from the public weighed heavily on me, I fretted over what it could mean for my future, and I was concerned about being blamed as a victim.
After many heartfelt talks with dear ones, I’ve found the courage to tackle my anxieties. When the BBC invited me to share my experiences on their program, I spoke honestly about my time there.
After struggling with anxiety over sharing my experiences, I had concerns about potential criticism from the public, uncertainty about my future, and the possibility of victim blaming. However, through heartfelt discussions with those closest to me, I’ve found the courage to confront these fears. When approached by the BBC to share my story on their platform, I spoke openly and honestly about my time on the show.
In today’s societal norms, expressing one’s opinion openly can be challenging for many individuals, even as social media amplifies various voices. Through my experience producing numerous documentaries, I have observed this trend among numerous women.
I’m grateful to the BBC and BBC Studios for their quick response and exceptional assistance, not forgetting those who have contacted me. Your kindness is deeply appreciated. Warm regards, Zara.
Amanda Abbington
The investigation into misconduct at the BBC began when Amanda asserted that she developed PTSD as a result of Giovanni Pernice’s demanding and all-encompassing training methods.
Amanda, who unexpectedly left the competition five weeks ago, will speak out for the first time since quittering Strictly, appearing on Lorraine coming up next week.
An actress, age 50, appears on the program next Thursday. In Lorraine’s absence during her summer vacation, Christine Lampard will conduct the interview instead.
Amanda suddenly departed from Strictly in October, mentioning “personal matters” as her reason, and has remained absent from the show since then. Additionally, she stepped down from social media platforms about a month ago following Giovanni’s dismissal.
An Italian expert, aged 33, won’t be coming back to the BBC show due to an ongoing probe into accusations of abusive conduct off-camera. He maintains his innocence.
Additionally, the actress acknowledged feeling sick following their rehearsals together. Notably, Pernice was a beloved figure on Strictly who had danced for eight consecutive seasons before being suspended.
Jonathan Goodwin, Abbington’s ex-escapologist husband, who became paralyzed following a tragic mishap during a TV performance in 2021, supported her account of being unwell.
She commented: “He would say, ‘You’d return home, feeling sick and weeping, believing you weren’t worthwhile. You were insubstantial, hollow.”
The actress reportedly held a heartfelt conversation with Laura Whitmore (39) and Ranvir Singh (46) this year, discussing their experiences while working with Giovanni during the BBC’s investigation.
Laura Whitmore
Following Amanda’s allegations against Giovanni, Laura revealed that she experienced significant discomfort around him and wept daily during their stint on the program.
In the fourteenth season of Strictly, Laura, a 42-year-old ex-presenter of Love Island, danced with professional partner Giovanni. Unfortunately, she was the sixth celebrity to be eliminated from the competition.
After reportedly leaving Strictly, the dancer shared a post on Instagram without any response from his fellow cast members.
According to reports, he decided against joining the latest show after facing intense criticism from three former dancing partners who accused him of being overly aggressive.
In a recent social media post, Giovanni expressed surprise, just like the readers, over the news articles accusing him of questionable dance instruction techniques.
I absolutely deny any allegations of abusive or threatening conduct towards others. I’m eager to establish the truth and prove my innocence.
Over the past 10 years, if you’ve been part of my Strictly Come Dancing adventure, you’d understand my intense enthusiasm and drive to win. My eagerness for my dance partners’ success is unmatched.
I’ve consistently worked hard to support my dancing partners in reaching their full potential. This motivation stems from deep affection towards them and my own desire to succeed, both personally and together as a team.
‘Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!’
Ranvir Singh
Ranvir Singh, a previous celebrity participant in the 2020 series, once shared her apprehension towards Giovanni, expressing that she felt intimidated by him during their collaboration.
After the start of rehearsals for the 2020 series, Ranvir gave signs that she was having issues with Giovanni.
She said on GMB ahead of her series launch: ‘Don’t be fooled by his angelic face!
‘He is a fiery Italian, super strict – I am a bit scared of him.’
In the 2020 series, she reached as high as fifth position alongside the dancer. However, she shared that she experienced a breakdown during rehearsals. After the competition ended, she disappeared from his social media presence.
Last year, after the end of the series, Ranvir’s followers remarked that she had stopped following her ex-dance partner on social media. Later on, they observed that she had resumed following him once again.
In later seasons of Strictly Come Dancing, some people have expressed concerns about her apparent absence of backing for him.
Anneka Rice
In 2021, the presenter, aged 62, expressed feeling downhearted and underwent three months of physical therapy due to experiencing “whiplash” after participating in Strictly Come Dancing.
In the 2019 edition of the BBC program, Anneka appeared as a cast member and teamed up with Kevin Clifton. Unfortunately, they got eliminated after three weeks.
Although Anneka appeared to enjoy herself, she later revealed that she had endured intense pain during the experience and was surprised by how much she was hurt, stating, “I wasn’t prepared for how shattered I would become.”
Although she had established herself as an “action woman” on television programs like Treasure Hunt on Channel 4 and Challenge Anneka from the BBC, the celebrity admitted that Dancing with the Stars unexpectedly subjected her to greater physical discomfort.
In an episode of “My Mate Bought A Toaster” podcast, she shared her story about her injuries: “I was in such agony that I could only hobble my way back home… and then immerse myself in a frigid bath. It’s amazing how one can forget the painful aspects of an experience when it’s supposed to be joyful in essence.”
Just like childbirth, the pain and discomfort seem to fade away with time. But after that last dance I gave it my all, I ended up suffering from severe whiplash in my neck which required three long months of physical therapy for recovery.
The star told how she was able to dance through the pain due to the ‘adrenaline rush’ she had.
After the show, I reflected on the experience and realized that although I’ve engaged in risky activities throughout my life, I had somehow managed to avoid serious injury until then.
‘But it brings you very low because I obviously wondered whether I’d ever recover.’
Afterward, she found herself feeling deeply sad. What took her by surprise was the extent of her emotional exhaustion, despite being in good physical shape.
Fern Britton
Meanwhile, Fern revealed she was ‘kicked and shoved’ during her time on Strictly.
In an old interview unearthed from 2015, the presenter, who was then 67 years old, made these statements about her professional dance partner Artem Chigvintsev.
At a function organized by The Times, Fern, who was the fifth contestant dismissed from the BBC series in 2012, shared her experience saying, “Artem would often nudge or jab me with his feet while looking at mine.”
She recalled him allegedly saying: ‘You just stand there and don’t move; I dance round you.’
Fern added: ‘He was like “Shut your face. Go home before I kill you”.
Based on my understanding of your text, it seems like the speaker is expressing feelings of extreme frustration or despair using figurative language. I can relate to this feeling when life becomes overwhelming and death or explosion seem like an appealing escape. It’s a common human emotion, especially during difficult times. The use of hyperbole adds drama and intensity to their words. However, it’s important to remember that these statements are figurative expressions and not actual desires or intentions. I believe everyone has felt this way at some point in their lives when faced with challenges beyond their control. It’s a reminder of the complexity and depth of human emotions. Let’s strive to offer support and understanding instead of judgment to those going through tough times.
Fern went on expressing that although they had feelings for each other briefly, her companion didn’t radiate charisma.
She said: ‘I did kind of enjoy it, but it was grim at the same time.’
In response to Fern’s allegations, Artem spoke to the Daily Express, stating, “I genuinely cared for Fern with respect, and these accusations against me go against my values and who I truly am.”
‘I cannot imagine what has prompted such statements which come as a shock to me.’
In 2014, Artem parted ways with Strictly and moved on to work for Dancing with the Stars in the US. He continues to be a professional dancer on that show.
Laila Rouass
During the 2009 series of the show, Anton Du Beke, who was supporting Giovanni through a scandal, made Laila cry with a lighthearted comment about her appearance. He teased her by saying she resembled a certain swear word after her spray tan had been applied.
Later on, he expressed regret and acknowledged feeling “foolish” and “ashamed” over his previous remarks towards the actress, whose heritage is Indian and Moroccan. The two reconciled several weeks afterwards.
Anton caused controversy when it was disclosed that he referred to Laila as a derogatory term for a person of darker skin tone during rehearsals, after she applied fake tan.
A source told The Sun: ‘Anton has a very 1970s attitude and can be abrasive.
As the distinction between what’s acceptable and not becomes more ambiguous, some individuals find him agreeable to collaborate with.
Although some expressed dissatisfaction when he danced, the BBC still advanced his career. The situation seems peculiar.
Back in 2009, during the uproar over his comment, it came to light that Anton had made a joking remark to Laila, implying she might be a terrorist due to her North African background.
After the revelation on It Takes Two, Laila shared: “We’re coping together. This past week has been challenging for us both… We simply want to look forward.”
‘This happened weeks ago and we’ve been getting on very well.’
Anton expressed again his regret and apologized once more to Laila, the entire show crew, and the viewers at home. He felt ashamed and foolish for his actions last weekend.
Instead, he added: “That was a foolish action and remark. Unfortunately, it’s been the topic of conversation instead of the fantastic show we put together.”
‘As I say I am mortified about it, completely, and Laila has been quite remarkably wonderful.’
Georgina Bouzova
Discovered on film: Ex-professional dancer James Jordan revealed he would drag Georgina along and yell at her if she missed her steps during their routines.
A ballroom dancer and choreographer, aged 46, criticized the BBC this week after an old clip resurfaced following recent scandals. She stated that the majority of the footage didn’t concern Georgina at all.
In 2006, during the filming of the fourth series, there is a clip that captures him practicing scenes with actress Georgina.
He similarly tells her, “I want you to hurt yourself by standing on one leg,” while showing indifference to her pain if she hasn’t actually fractured a rib. At the same time, he carelessly hurls a chair through the fitness center.
He’s now reacted to the clip on Instagram with an angry post, claiming it was manipulated for amusement and overdramatized.
He maintained that the terrible accusations made against him were completely different from the reality of his time on the VT, which lasted for eight years, during which no partner voiced any complaints.
Fiona Phillips
A clip from back in 2005, featuring ex-pro dancer Brendan Cole, has recently reemerged, showing him giving Fiona, his dance partner at the time, a few gentle pats on her derriere during rehearsals.
In 2018, after being a part of the show for fifteen years, Brendan was let go due to allegations that he was challenging to collaborate with.
I have worked as a production assistant on several talk shows, and let me tell you, there are certain lines that should never be crossed. One such incident that left a bitter taste in my mind was when Brendan, a well-known guest on Fiona’s television show, overstepped his boundaries.
Before Fiona requested Brendan to lower his voice, he gave her a look as if she were an unwelcome object under his feet.
In 2020, Fiona expressed that her ex-partner didn’t behave well towards her, and she believed it was just desserts when his contract wasn’t extended.
In simpler terms, the ex-host of GMTV and Lorraine shared with the Daily Star that Brendan had a tough demeanor and wasn’t particularly kind or well-behaved.
‘He’s not on the show now. Karma indeed. It works its way every time.’
In an interview with The Mirror back in 2021, Fiona expressed, “Brendan can be quite stern and demanding, insisting on taking the top spot.”
A reliable source shared with The Sun on Friday that more celebrities are planning to speak out: “The numbers of personal injury claims among stars are often questioned, but at least three of them have valid claims for lost income. Being linked to this case might make them appear less trustworthy in the eyes of potential employers.”
Certain past participants required psychological treatment following their experience on the program, with Rachel Riley and Amanda Abbinson being among them, both receiving PTSD diagnoses.
If the BBC is found responsible (and there’s strong indication of negligence at present), they may end up paying more than £1 million in compensation. This is concerning news for a program funded by taxpayers.
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2024-07-20 15:07