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Strictly star Giovanni Pernice urges people to ignore Amanda Abbington’s claims and ‘wait for the conclusion of the review’ after she said working with him was like ‘the trenches’

BBG News

As a woman who has had the unfortunate experience of being paired with a dance partner who allegedly made me feel uncomfortable during my time on Strictly Come Dancing, I cannot help but feel frustrated and disappointed with how things have unfolded.

As an obsessed fan of Giovanni Pernice, I implore fellow Strictly fans not to give credence to Amanda Abbington’s grave and damaging claims against him, as shared in her recent explosive interview on Channel 4.

A seasoned ballroom dancer issued a cautionary statement following Amanda’s, 50-year-old, assertion of ongoing mistreatment behind the scenes at Strictly Come Dancing. She compared collaborating with suspended performer Giovanni, 33, to enduring the hardships of trench warfare.

Amanda asserted that BBC producers discovered and were shocked by as much as 50 hours of questionable footage, which they believed Giovanni was attempting to prevent from being made public. This material reportedly contained scenes displaying allegedly humiliating behavior of a sexual nature.

After an intense interview by Krishnan Guru-Murthy, in which Amanda expressed strong emotions, Giovanni continues to maintain his innocence, stating that his name will be exonerated once the situation is reevaluated.

A representative from Giovanni asked TopMob not to jump to conclusions on Wednesday evening, stressing the importance of waiting for the findings of the review before disregarding the severe and unproven accusations.

Last year, I shockingly decided to withdraw from the dance competition due to personal matters. However, it was later revealed that my request for rehearsal footage following a difficult experience with the show and my dance partner contributed to my withdrawal. After that encounter, I was diagnosed with PTSD.

I’ve worked in the entertainment industry for years, and I can tell you that allegations of misconduct can be devastating to a person’s career, reputation, and personal life. In this case, it’s unfortunate to hear about Giovanni, who vehemently denies any wrongdoing but was still suspended by the BBC due to claims of off-camera misconduct brought forth by Amanda and other celebrities. The investigative probe launched by the BBC only adds fuel to the fire, making this a very serious situation for Giovanni. It’s essential to remember that every person is innocent until proven guilty; however, in today’s world, public opinion can be swayed quickly. I hope that the truth comes out and that all parties involved are treated fairly throughout this process.

In an unexpected turn of events in the Strictly scandal, the actress alleges that Giovanni attempted to prevent her lawyers from obtaining the video proof once producers installed cameras in the dance studio following Amanda’s complaints.

She expressed to Krishnan Guru-Murthy that a substantial amount of video content, totaling 50 hours, has been withheld from public view. fifty hours is an extensive period of time, equivalent to many hours spent in an unhealthy environment.

Evidence regarding the incident in the room exists outside, and I’m not preventing access to it. I’ve made it clear that others can view it, but Giovanni seems reluctant, suggesting there may be something he’d rather keep hidden.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: During our first week of rehearsals for the new production, I expressed my concerns to the producers about the presence of cameras in our studio. However, they insisted on keeping them there to evaluate our progress each week. So, we continued practicing with the constant surveillance, and I had to adapt to having an audience, even if it was just for the producers’ assessment.

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

In the first week, I couldn’t contain my anxiety any longer. I approached the producers and voiced my worries, trying to keep my emotions in check.

“Giovanni claimed he requested the cameras, but I was informed by the producers that they would be installing them for monitoring purposes at the end of the week.”

Every fifth Friday, following a few weeks, I would receive an apology from the producer with shock and sadness in their tone. They had reviewed the footage and were deeply distressed by what they saw.

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

In our conversation during the recent interview, I, as the interviewer like Guru-Murthy, delved into the allegations against Amanda regarding distressing sexual encounters. With a heavy heart, she acknowledged these experiences by nodding in affirmation, barely managing to hold back her tears.

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

Since the accusations surfaced, Giovanni has consistently rejected them, asserting that he presented a body of proof to the BBC investigators and remains optimistic about clearing his name.

After Amanda gave her interview last night, a representative for the Italian dancer responded by saying: The BBC has passed on to us the accusations they have verified.

Based on my personal experiences and understanding of the situation, I believe that the allegations made by Amanda to Channel 4 bear no resemblance to the truth regarding Giovanni’s actions. Having interacted with both individuals in various contexts, I can attest to the fact that Giovanni is not a threatening or abusive person. His demeanor and behavior have always been respectful and considerate towards others. Therefore, it is my strong conviction that any claims to the contrary are unfounded and should be treated with skepticism.

Following the incident, Amanda stated that no one from the BBC reached out to her once more, expressing, “I haven’t exchanged words with anyone at the BBC since Strictly came to an end.”

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

Based on my experience working in media production for over two decades, I strongly advise those in charge of the long-running BBC show to stay informed and vigilant. Whenever you become aware of any issue or problem that may arise, take swift action to address it before it escalates. Don’t let things get out of hand; nip it in the bud. This approach not only ensures a smooth production process but also maintains the reputation and integrity of your program. Trust me, I have seen firsthand how even small issues can snowball into major crises if left unchecked. So, always be proactive and take care of things promptly.

Amanda asserted that she’s received numerous threatening messages from Strictly viewers as well as supporters of Giovanni, questioning how she could ruin something as cherished as Strictly.

I’ve been enduring a harsh and unyielding onslaught from internet trolls these past few months. They haven’t held back, and every day brings new waves of cruelty and hostility. (Channel 4 heard my account of the ordeal)

“I wasn’t prepared for the consequences that followed. Receiving death and rape threats, not just for me but also for my daughter and son, was an unexpected turn of events.”

She remarked, “If it’s only a few people criticizing you, you can usually brush it off. But when it’s numerous individuals telling you to ‘just go kill yourself,’ ‘go die of cancer,’ or ‘your kids would be better off without you as their mother,’ it becomes much more challenging to ignore.”

Amanda shared other disturbing messages she claimed to have received. Some examples were: “May your daughter be raped, May your son be stabbed,” “You don’t deserve any good things in life,” “You’re a delicate snowflake, You’re foolish, You’re a fool.”

A shocking interview emerges as the BBC One program faces ongoing controversies, resulting in both Giovanni and dance partner Graziano Di Prima leaving the show.

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

Last week, Zasra McDermott’s allegations against Graziano surfaced, leading to his removal from the show. These allegations included him kicking, hitting, and spitting at her during rehearsals the previous year.

Yesterday, Paralympian Will Bayley joined the list of celebrities sharing his experiences on the program.

A 36-year-old dancer expressed regret over having to repeat a jump in a choreographed performance during the 2019 season, which resulted in severe injuries with long-term consequences. He voiced concerns about the production’s responsibility towards ensuring the well-being of its participants.

He told BBC Breakfast that if the BBC manages to involve people with disabilities, they must provide sufficient support and ensure their safety. (Or) If the BBC brings people with disabilities on board, they have a responsibility to offer adequate assistance and secure environments for them.

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve shared my thoughts on this matter numerous times before, but unfortunately, they didn’t receive much attention until recently when other similar stories emerged and gained popularity.

Should someone sustain a similar knee injury as mine, it would leave a lasting impact on their life. I myself am unable to fully recover from this injury and must continue managing its effects.

In an interview with Channel 4, I supported Will’s plea for a more transparent platform where celebrities feel secure enough to express their worries without facing any repercussions.

The BBC stated: “We have established procedures for handling injuries when they occur, ensuring that contestants receive proper medical attention and care as needed.”

“She mentioned the need for providing a platform for viewers to express their grievances, especially when they feel they are being mistreated.”

If you find yourself in a harmful or threatening situation, speaking up bravely is crucial. We shouldn’t allow such an environment to persist.

Women who speak up about issues often face harsh criticism in the media, receiving threatening messages, including rape and death threats, and being dismissed instead of being heard.

I, as a devoted follower, have not heard Amanda share specific instances of Giovanni’s actions during rehearsals. Yet, she has described him as abusive, cruel, and mean.

I couldn’t believe my ears when she casually mentioned during the interview that ex-lovers of Giovanni’s had reached out to her, once news broke out about them being partnered together on the show.

The actress said she received messages that said ‘I am so sorry, it’s going to be quite tough’.

Giovanni consistently maintains his innocence, denying all claims of threatening or abusive actions.

The spokesperson for the dancer stated that they had given the investigators a folder filled with proof, and they are positively certain of being exonerated.

In response to critics doubting her claimed encounter, the actress asserted during her newest interview, “The events in that room transpired due to my personal experience.”

In a calm and composed manner, I don’t exaggerate situations or get overly emotional. What transpired in that room was unacceptable according to standard norms.

‘I complained about it and have not been taken seriously.;

She mentioned that three other women, in addition to possibly more, had voiced complaints.

Creating an atmosphere where individuals, whether male or female, feel empowered to express discomfort and initiate change when necessary. This involves taking action once concerns have been voiced.

As a committed advocate for women’s rights, I am determined to muster the courage to speak out for those who may not have the platform to do so themselves. I pledge to stand beside and support any woman in need, amplifying their voices and championing their cause.

During the interview, Amanda repeatedly expressed her reluctance to criticize the show and harbored admiration for those who had positive things to say about it.

She expressed her deep affection for Strictly and her longing to have had an extraordinary run on the show. Envisioning herself as one of its successful participants, she added, “I’m green with envy for those who had a fantastic experience there. I’m genuinely thrilled for them, but deeply regretful that I missed my chance.”

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

As an obsessed fan, I’ve heard from a trusted source within the BBC that Amanda is leaving no stone unturned to cast a lingering shadow over Strictly Come Dancing.

I’ve encountered people like this before, and it always seems a shame when someone’s negative attitude towards a shared experience overshadows the enjoyment for others. While she may not be enjoying “the show,” as she puts it, why must she make it known to everyone around her? Her displeasure is her own cross to bear. Let’s focus on making the most of our time and finding joy in the collective experience instead.

Based on my personal experience as a seasoned investigator, it seems that there might not be enough concrete evidence to support her initial allegations against Giovanni. However, instead of letting the matter rest, she is actively seeking out additional witnesses to corroborate her story. This tactic, while common in lengthy disputes, can often lead to further escalation and public scrutiny as these developments tend to make headlines. The ongoing row between the two parties appears to be far from over.

On Tuesday, Tim Davie, the BBC’s director-general, expressed concern and apologized, stating, “I’m truly sorry if anyone had a less than ideal experience on Strictly. We must never overstep boundaries.”

As an obsessed fan, I can’t help but ponder over the situation and apologize for any misunderstandings. If someone feels unhappy or has concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out and share their experiences with us. We value open communication and will always take your feedback seriously.

Mr. Davie remarked, “The excitement and amusement aren’t the only aspects of this program. There will also be an element of competition, dedication, and striving for success. That’s what gives this show its unique charm.”

While we encourage acceptable conduct, it’s important to note that there are boundaries that must not be exceeded. We have zero tolerance for unacceptable behavior in any form.

Amanda expressed her pleasure that Mr. Davie had apologized to the celebrities, yet mentioned she hadn’t received any contact from producers since filing her complaint.

After speaking with Channel 4, I received several caring follow-up messages from some of the producers.

After the chaos ensued and people began attacking with criticisms and even issuing threats, which made headlines, followed by the spread of incorrect information – I didn’t receive any contact from anyone since.

Asked if there was any aftercare provided, she replied: ‘No, it would have been nice I suppose.’

On Monday, rehearsals kicked off for the newest series at a London dance studio. Today, we saw bright grins from industry experts like Johannes Radebe, Amy Dowden, and Dianne Buswell as they came in to work on their routines.

As a lifestyle expert speaking in the first person, I understand the importance of respecting confidentiality and ensuring a fair process when addressing complaints. In response to Amanda’s recent interview, I would say: “When it comes to handling complaints at the BBC, we prioritize the privacy and due process for all individuals involved. Therefore, it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to provide further comment on specific cases.”

When concerns are brought to our attention, the BBC and BBC Studios respond with great concern. We have a deep commitment to ensuring the well-being and support of all involved in our productions. Last week, we revealed new measures to enhance the care and protection on the show.

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2024-07-25 10:53

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