Strictly Come Dancing star Amanda Abbington has weighed in on the BBC show’s future after being embroiled in scandal for months.
50-year-old Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington opened up about her turbulent time on Strictly Come Dancing on Woman’s Hour.
Amanda quit the series last year after just five weeks in the competition and launched a complaint against her dance partner Giovanni Pernice.
Giovanni has denied any claims of threatening or abusive behaviour made against him, but he will not be taking part in this year’s series of Strictly.
Months after the news of the 33-year-old dancer’s exit, fellow professional dancer Graziano di Prima was axed from the show for gross misconduct.
Amanda admitted she faced lots of abuse online as the complaint emerged, but insisted her family and fans have been “keeping her going” in recent months.
During her appearance on Woman’s Hour on Friday, the star was asked about the dancing show’s future after it was once named the “jewel in the crown” of the BBC.
She explained: “I would like it to continue, I just think the contestants need to be listened to and if something happens, there need to be proper safety procedures in place. “I don’t know how they would do that as it’s not my job.
“All I know is that I wouldn’t want anybody going into that show to have the experience I’ve had and the experience other people I have spoken to have had because it’s not fair. It’s a wonderful Saturday night entertainment show and it shouldn’t be marred by bad behaviour.”
Amanda broke her silence in two major television interviews on ITV and Channel 4 in recent weeks where she was interviewed by Christine Lampard as well as Krishnan Guru-Murphy who have both participated in Strictly.
Amanda told Channel 4 News she and her daughter had received “rape threats” and claimed “death threats” have been made towards her son.
The star also revealed she’d experienced “brutal, relentless and unforgiving” on a daily basis since making allegations about her time on Strictly.
The BBC has launched an investigation following the claims, but the results have not yet been published.
Strictly will be returning later this year at a date yet to be announced by BBC bosses.
The line-up is slowly being announced ahead of the start date, with comedian Chris McCausland, JB Gill, Dr Punam Krishan, Toyah Willcox and Wynne Evans named in the official line-up so far.
JSL star JB said: “I danced in the Strictly Christmas special over a decade ago and loved it, so when I got the call to join Strictly this year, it was an immediate yes from me.
“I’m raring to go to and looking forward to showing off some new skills to the JLS boys. From muddy wellies on the fields of my farm to sequins and Glitterballs – I’m here to embrace it all!”
Strictly Come Dancing has faced its fair share of controversies in recent times, with actress Amanda Abbington speaking out about her troubled experience on the show.
The 50-year-old Sherlock star left the competition early last year and lodged a complaint against her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, who denied any allegations of misconduct. With Giovanni not returning for the upcoming season, the show seems to be undergoing significant changes.
In addition to Amanda’s ordeal, professional dancer Graziano di Prima was also dismissed from the show due to gross misconduct.
The series of events has highlighted the need for better safety measures and support for contestants. Amanda emphasized the importance of listening to the concerns of participants and implementing effective procedures to prevent any form of mistreatment.
Despite facing online abuse and threats, Amanda has found solace in the unwavering support of her family and fans.
Her courage in speaking out about her experience has shed light on the darker side of reality TV and the impact it can have on individuals.
It is crucial for shows like Strictly Come Dancing to prioritize the well-being of its contestants and maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone involved.
As the BBC conducts an investigation into the allegations surrounding the show, fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Strictly Come Dancing later this year. The lineup for the upcoming season includes familiar faces like comedian Chris McCausland, former JLS member JB Gill, and healthcare professional Dr. Punam Krishan.
The anticipation is building as the countdown to the new season begins.With each passing day, more details about the show’s return are being unveiled, sparking excitement among viewers. From farm fields to dance floors, the diverse lineup promises a season filled with entertainment and surprises.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of talent and glamour, setting the stage for another unforgettable season.
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