Movies

Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood admits he HAS watched the Amanda Abbington tape and is ‘blown away’ by it amid investigation into her allegations of ‘abusive behaviour’

BBG News

As a seasoned observer of the entertainment industry, I must say that the recent allegations against Giovanni Pernice and other Strictly Come Dancing professionals have left me both saddened and concerned. The accounts shared by Amanda Holden, as well as others who remain unnamed, paint a picture of behavior that is simply unacceptable in any workplace, let alone one as high-profile as Strictly.

As a devoted fan and ardent judge on Strictly Come Dancing, I’ve weighed in on the recent claims made by Amanda Abbington regarding Giovanni Pernice. Here’s my take… [Continue with your explanation or conclusion]

Since Giovanni’s suspension from the BBC show, it has been surrounded by turmoil as Amanda, his celebrity partner, alleged abusive behavior on his part, describing him as both “cruel” and “unkind.” However, he has denied these accusations.

Last month, Graziano Di Prima was dismissed following accusations of verbally and physically abusing Zara McDermott during rehearsals. He’s since apologized for the kick directed at his former partner, stating that other allegations do not correspond with his recollections.

On this week’s edition of “This Morning” airing on Friday, the long-time cast member Craig (age 59), who joined the popular show in 2004, faced questions from hosts Craig Doyle and Jodie Gibson regarding the latest series events.

“As a fervent admirer of the spectacle unfolding, let me share my sentiments: When the sensational tale burst into public view through the media, I was taken aback, just like every other judge, finding it hard to grasp because during the show, we interact with the professionals and celebrities on rare occasions. However, our realms are distinctly apart.”

As someone who has been through my fair share of investigations and misunderstandings, I eagerly await the conclusion of this current one. The back-and-forth of accusations and counter-accusations can be exhausting and frustrating. I’d rather discover the truth myself, as I find it difficult to pass judgement based solely on hearsay. My personal experiences have taught me that the truth often lies somewhere in between what different parties claim. So, I patiently wait for the investigation to wrap up, hoping for clarity and resolution.

Absolutely, I’ve taken a look at the Amanda video and related content, leaving me utterly astounded by the entire scenario. Frankly, it’s left me in a state of profound shock.

Previously, Amanda asserted that Giovanni attempted to prevent the dissemination of as much as 50 hours of allegedly harmful recordings.

In an emotionally charged interview, the actress, 50, compared the dance show to ‘the trenches’ telling Channel 4 News that BBC producers had been left ‘horrified’ by clips that also allegedly exhibited ‘humiliating behaviour of a sexual nature’.

In another part of the interview, Craig mentioned that the BBC will assign a supervisor from Strictly’s production team to accompany them during all future rehearsals, due to recent criticisms.

As an ardent fan, I wholeheartedly agree that the implementation of chaperones is brilliant! It’s fantastic to see them being incorporated because this measure safeguards not just the dancers and professionals, but also the celebrities and the entire production crew.

Speaking about the upcoming BBC shows, Craig expressed his eagerness: ‘I’m really looking forward to wrapping up the investigation so we can begin watching a fresh series.’

Previously this month became known that TOWIE actor Pete Wicks agreed to participate, although it emerged that his friend Zara McDermott suffered both physical and verbal abuse from her dancing partner Graziano Di Prima last year.

Additionally, it’s said that former Arsenal player Paul Merson and DIY SOS host Nick Knowles have also been seen donning their dancing attire.

And now according to a Reddit post seen by Metro, all 15 stars set to compete have been leaked in an ‘alleged list’. 

According to reports, the post apparently featured a snapshot from a private Instagram Story intended only for a few close friends, implying it was not intended to be made public.

Notable figures such as Hannah Waddingham (known for her role in Ted Lasso), Shobna Gulati (recognized from Coronation Street), Janet Street-Porter (a regular host on Loose Women), Duncan James (former member of Blue) and Kia Pegg (famous for Tracy Beaker Returns) were among those listed.

According to reports, the caption allegedly stated: ‘Acquired from a friend, this appears thrilling! I can hardly contain my excitement, particularly for Hannah Waddingham!’

Chris McCausland was included in the list as well, following his failure to dismiss the Strictly speculations during a chat with Gyles Brandreth last month. Notably, Brandreth’s name appeared on the same leaked list.

In addition, Olympic legend Dame Laura Kenney, known for her roles in Outnumbered (Tyger Drew-Honey), Sarah Millican, and Pearl Mackie from Doctor Who were also included on the list.

It’s said that the last names on the list include actor Sunil Patel, radio host Jordan North, ex-professional soccer player Jermaine Jenas, and soap opera actress Shona McGarty.

Meanwhile Death In Paradise actor Ralf Little has also been rumoured to be joining the lineup.

Upon being asked regarding the rumored roster, BBC’s Strictly representatives assured TopMob that the celebrities participating in this season will be unveiled in a timely manner.

On Monday, Strictly found itself in deeper trouble as backstage personnel labeled the controversy-ridden program as “toxic” and “cruel.”

Based on The Observer’s report, the workers at the popular dance show are claiming they were interrogated about their personal relationships or romantic lives.

One complained that ‘talented co-workers were treated with cruelty,’ while another added that the workplace environment on the show eight years ago was ‘tense, toxic, uncomfortable’.

Later, they shared with the media that they had received inappropriate, sexual remarks, such as questions regarding their intimate relationships or sexual activities.

A representative from the BBC emphasized that they prioritize the wellbeing of their crew members involved in every season of Strictly above all else.

In prompt and efficient manner, we swiftly address any issues brought forward, utilizing comprehensive, robust, and enduring methods for their resolution. Regarding allegations of a toxic work environment, we do not acknowledge such claims.

Last week, Amanda asserted that Giovanni allegedly sought to prevent the broadcast of as much as 50 hours of potentially harmful video footage, in response to her accusation of bullying towards the BBC.

In an emotionally charged interview, the actress, 50, compared the dance show to ‘the trenches’.

She shared with Channel 4 News that BBC producers were reportedly shocked by video clips, which also apparently showed inappropriate and humiliating behavior of a sexual nature.

Last year, I found myself in an unexpected turn of events when I decided to step away from the dance competition for personal reasons. Subsequent reports hinted at my request for rehearsal footage following a challenging collaboration with the show and my dance partner. This experience ultimately led me to grapple with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

After Giovanni firmly rejected accusations of aggressive or harmful actions towards him, he was eventually suspended. Later on, the BBC initiated an investigation following allegations of inappropriate behavior off-screen made not just by Amanda but also by several other celebrities.

However, in an unexpected turn of events in the Strictly storyline, the actress alleges that Giovanni sought to hinder her legal team from obtaining the video ‘proof’ following the compulsion by producers to install cameras in the dance studio, a move prompted by Amanda’s apprehensions.

She informed Krishnan Guru-Murthy that approximately 50 hours of video content are being withheld. To put it into perspective, she explained that 50 hours equates to a significant amount of footage and an extensive period spent in an environment that was harmful.

‘There’s proof available regarding what transpired in that room, and I’m not the one preventing its access. I’ve offered for everyone to view it, but Giovanni seems unwilling, suggesting he may have something to conceal if he has nothing to hide.’

A representative for Giovanni advised TopMob then: ‘It’s best to hold off judgment until the review is complete, disregarding these severe and slanderous claims that lack any substantiating evidence.’

In response to her worries following their initial week of rehearsals, the producers decided to set up cameras inside the actress and Giovanni’s practice space, as they wanted to regularly check the footage to evaluate the dynamics between them. The actress mentioned this in a statement she made.

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

In the initial seven days, she voiced her worries to the production team, she clarified, holding back her emotions.

‘Giovanni said that he asked for the cameras, he didn’t ask for the cameras, I know that he didn’t ask for the cameras, because the producers came to me and said: ‘We’re going to put in cameras so we can view the footage at the end of the week and make an assessment and see what’s going on.’

Every Friday, following approximately a five-week span, I’d receive a message from the producer, usually along these lines: “We’ve just rewatched the footage, we’re utterly stunned and appalled. We sincerely apologize.” As an ardent fan, hearing this never failed to send chills down my spine.

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

During the interview, I found myself confronted with questions from Guru-Murthy, who had also graced our screens in the 2023 series. He inquired if it was indeed true that I had been subjected to humiliating sexual behavior, a query that left me on the verge of tears as I gave a silent affirmation with a nod.

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

Since the initial accusations surfaced, Giovanni has consistently refuted them all. He asserts that he has submitted a body of proof to BBC investigators and maintains a strong belief in his ability to establish his innocence.

After the interview, a representative for the Italian dancer commented on Amanda’s assertions again: “The BBC has passed on to us the accusations they could verify.”

1) ‘Giovanni denies that his actions match the accusations made by Amanda on Channel 4, and he flatly rejects any suggestion of threatening or abusive conduct.’

Following the aftermath, Amanda stated that no one from the BBC contacted her anymore, asserting: “I haven’t exchanged words with anyone from the BBC since Strictly finished.”

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

The explosive interview emerges amidst ongoing turbulence for the popular BBC One program, where a series of accusations have arisen, ultimately leading to the departures of both host Giovanni and dance partner Graziano Di Prima.

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

In my role as a lifestyle advisor, I find myself compelled to share an unfortunate incident that transpired in the world of reality television. Last year, regrettably, I found myself in a situation where I had to leave a show due to some serious allegations. It was claimed that during our rehearsals, I resorted to actions such as kicking, hitting, and spitting at a fellow reality TV star named Zara. These accusations are indeed troubling, and I deeply regret if my actions caused any distress or discomfort to Zara or anyone else involved.

Read More

2024-08-02 16:51

Previous post Stranger Things star Caleb McLaughlin pokes fun at the long wait for season 5
Next post Suits star to lead Yellowstone spinoff