Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has described the recent allegations of abusive behaviour on the show as a “shock” and “complete news” to him. Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, he said the judges are never present during rehearsals and only see the performances on Saturdays.
The comments follow the departure of professional dancer Graziano Di Prima after claims about his treatment of reality star Zara McDermott. There have also been allegations against Giovanni Pernice, which he denies. Revel Horwood said he is waiting for the outcome of investigations.
The BBC has announced new measures to strengthen welfare, including chaperones present at all times during training. Revel Horwood supported the move, comparing it to practices in theatre where chaperones and psychologists are common.
Former professionals Ian Waite and Vincent Simone expressed surprise at the allegations, with Waite condemning any physical aggression. Di Prima said he regrets the events leading to his departure, while McDermott said she feared victim shaming but spoke candidly to the BBC.
Amanda Abbington, who withdrew from the last series, described her experience as “tough and horrible”. The BBC’s director of unscripted, Kate Phillips, said the corporation takes inappropriate behaviour seriously and will act on it.
