BBC executives have been plunged into a full-blown crisis, convening emergency meetings to address the escalating scandal surrounding Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice. The popular dancer's future on the hit show is now hanging by a thread following a series of serious allegations about his intense training methods.
The controversy reached a boiling point after actress Amanda Abbington, his celebrity partner from the 2023 series, formally lodged a complaint with the corporation. Abbington, best known for her role in Sherlock, has allegedly requested access to their rehearsal footage to support her claims of Pernice's "militant" and "abrasive" approach, which she claims took a significant toll on her mental health and ultimately led to her withdrawal from the competition on medical grounds.
A Growing Chorus of Complaints
Disturbingly for BBC bosses, Abbington is not a lone voice. It is reported that three of Pernice's former celebrity partners have now sought legal counsel and are considering taking collective action. This suggests a pattern of behaviour that has deeply concerned those at the highest levels of the BBC.
The situation has become so severe that high-level crisis talks have been initiated to manage the fallout. The core question being debated behind closed doors is whether Pernice can, or should, return to the glitzy ballroom for the next series of the nation's favourite dance show.
The BBC's Delicate Dilemma
The corporation finds itself in a precarious position. On one hand, Giovanni Pernice is one of Strictly's most recognised and successful professionals, having lifted the Glitterball Trophy in 2021 with Rose Ayling-Ellis. His large fanbase and proven track record make him a valuable asset.
However, the weight of the allegations and the potential for a formal investigation and legal proceedings present a significant reputational risk. The BBC is famed for its duty of care, and a failure to act decisively could prove damaging.
For now, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the show. While some insiders suggest a "wait and see" approach is being adopted, the ongoing crisis meetings signal just how seriously the allegations are being taken. The future of one of Strictly's biggest stars is now entirely dependent on the outcome of these high-stakes deliberations.
