The ongoing Strictly Come Dancing scandal has dominated headlines for several months.
From Amanda Abbington‘s allegations against Giovanni Pernice, Graziano Di Prima’s axing and veteran dancers like James Jordan and Anton Du Beke being dragged into the drama, it is hard to see light at the end of the tunnel.
But how did this all start and what has unfolded since October 2023?
Amanda accused Giovanni of ‘bullying’ (Credit: BBC)
October 2023: Amanda Abbington bows out of Strictly
On October 21, 2023, It Takes Two host Janette Manrara shared with Strictly viewers that actress Amanda Abbington would not be taking part in the upcoming live shows. Janette told viewers at the time: “We have some breaking news.
“Unfortunately, due to medical reasons, Amanda will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend.”
By October 23, Amanda shared that she would no longer be taking part in the competition. Amanda wrote to social media at the time: “It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue.
“It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside.”
However, Amanda didn’t personally thank Giovanni in the statement. Instead, she thanked “everyone on Strictly who looked after [her] and who are so kind and caring.” She added: “I’m so sad that I am unable to go any further. Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you xxx.”
Meanwhile, Giovanni gushed on his Instagram: “Amanda…I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.” [sic]
January 2024: Amanda Abbington allegations
On January 6, The Sun reported that Amanda had requested rehearsal footage of herself and Giovanni and was seeking legal advice. It was claimed the actress had developed PTSD following her time on the show.
A source allegedly told the publication: “The BBC have received a request for the footage they hold of Amanda and Giovanni. It is known as a data subject access request. There is a feeling that the recordings will lift the lid on what really goes on behind the scenes on Strictly.”
On January 14, Amanda expressed how she had received death threats since stating she had been suffering from PTSD in wake of her stint on Strictly.
“I was diagnosed with mild PTSD after Strictly for several reasons. And I told a few people about that, in the utmost confidence. Among other things that were happening in my life at the time. Both professionally and personally,” she told The Sun on Sunday.
“I’m very sorry that people felt the need to send me death threats, threaten my children and bring up my past, healthy relationship with an ex-partner as an indicator of my current mental health,” Amanda went on to say. She added: “I wish those people well.”
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