July 24th 2024.
Amanda Abbington sat down for an emotional interview, wiping away tears as she opened up about the "brutal" abuse she experienced during her time on Strictly Come Dancing. The Sherlock actress, who previously spoke out against her former dance partner Giovanni Pernice, shared the toll that the relentless and unforgiving threats from fans had taken on her.
In a video published on X, Abbington was interviewed by Channel 4 News presenter and fellow Strictly competitor Krishnan Guru-Murthy. As she struggled to hold back her tears, the Doc Martin star described the aftermath of her time on the show as "brutal, relentless and unforgiving."
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Abbington then clarified that the threats she received were not just aimed at her, but also her children. Her teenage son and daughter, whom she shares with ex Martin Freeman, were also targeted with death and rape threats. The actress urged others who have experienced bullying to speak out, despite the backlash she claims to have faced for doing so.
When asked if the threats came from Strictly fans, Abbington confirmed and also alleged that Pernice's supporters were involved as well. She emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for people to come forward and speak out against toxic behavior.
"I know what happened to me in that room wasn't acceptable. I complained about it and sort of have not been taken seriously," Abbington said. "We have to cultivate a society and an environment where women can come forward and say, 'yeah'... or men because it happens to men as well, 'I'm finding this uncomfortable. Can you do something about it?' And then something be done about it? That's all."
In the wake of Abbington's allegations, a storm of negative stories have emerged about the culture on the BBC's flagship show and the treatment of its contestants. Graziano Di Prima, who was also a dancer on the show, left amid allegations that he "kicked and hit" Love Island star Zara McDermott during rehearsals. He has since expressed regret over the events that led to his departure.
Abbington revealed that she knows of three other women who have gone through similar experiences on Strictly and believes there may be more who have yet to come forward. As a result, the BBC has implemented new measures to support the welfare of its contestants, such as having chaperones in rehearsal rooms.
On Tuesday, BBC director-general Tim Davie issued an apology to any contestants who have had a negative experience on the show. He also confirmed that Strictly will be returning, despite the recent controversies.
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