Strictly's Scandal: Behind the Glitter
The beloved BBC dance competition *Strictly Come Dancing
has been overshadowed by controversy, with two professional dancers leaving the show amid allegations of inappropriate behaviour during rehearsals.
The Abbington Withdrawal
The drama began in October 2023, when actress Amanda Abbington, partnered with Giovanni Pernice, withdrew from *Strictly
in week six, citing "personal reasons." While the BBC initially attributed this to medical reasons, Abbington later expressed her "deepest regret" on Instagram, suggesting a more complex situation.
Pernice's Denial
In May 2024, news surfaced of alleged concerns regarding Pernice's teaching methods. The dancer vehemently denied any suggestion of abusive or threatening behavior, stating he was looking forward to clearing his name. Legal firm Carter Ruck, acting on behalf of complainants, contacted the BBC regarding the allegations.
BBC Response
The BBC promised to handle any complaints with "care, fairness, and sensitivity" to all parties involved. In June 2024, Pernice was notably absent from the announced line-up for the upcoming season.
Another Departure: Di Prima
Adding to the growing controversy, Graziano Di Prima, another professional dancer, also announced his departure in July 2024. In a statement, he acknowledged that his "intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime." The BBC confirmed that Di Prima would no longer be part of the show.
McDermott Speaks Out
Zara McDermott, Di Prima's partner during the previous season, released a statement in July 2024, expressing distress over incidents that occurred in the *Strictly
training room. She explained her hesitation to speak out earlier due to fear of backlash and victim shaming.
BBC Action
In response to the ongoing scandal, the BBC announced significant changes to its safety protocols. These include assigning a member of production staff to all future rehearsals, as well as the addition of two dedicated welfare producers.
Looking Forward
The events surrounding *Strictly
have raised serious questions about the work environment and well-being of participants. The BBC's swift response and new measures reflect a commitment to addressing these concerns. However, the shadow of controversy will likely linger, forcing the show to navigate a delicate balance between entertainment and responsibility moving forward.
