Strictly Come Dancing, a popular BBC show, has been embroiled in a series of scandals involving abusive behavior and toxic work environments. After celebrity partner Amanda Abbington accused Giovanni Pernice of being ‘cruel and mean’, he was suspended from the show. Graziano Di Prima was also sacked over reports of verbal and physical abuse towards Zara McDermott during rehearsals. Production workers have alleged a negative workplace culture, with claims of ‘sexualised comments’ and mistreatment of talented individuals.
In response to these allegations, celebrities on the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing will reportedly undergo weekly psychological tests to ensure they can handle the mental strain of the show. This move comes as the show battles abuse claims and seeks to protect the well-being of contestants. The show has faced a series of controversies, including accusations of bullying and harassment, leading to a strained atmosphere among contestants and professionals involved in the production.
Amanda Abbington recently claimed that Giovanni Pernice tried to block the release of up to 50 hours of footage that exhibited toxic behavior during rehearsals. She described her experience on the show as challenging and compared it to ‘the trenches’. Following Amanda’s complaints, the show has been under investigation for off-camera misconduct and mistreatment of contestants. There have been calls for a more open environment where concerns can be raised without fear of retribution.
The show has been further rocked by allegations of bullying, with Will Bayley revealing that he suffered life-changing injuries during his time on Strictly Come Dancing. Paralympian Bayley criticized the show’s duty of care and emphasized the need for better support for contestants, especially those with disabilities. This incident has highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants on the show.
Amanda Abbington has faced backlash and harassment from fans of the show following her complaints about Giovanni Pernice. She has spoken out about the violent threats and online abuse she has received, including death threats directed towards herself and her children. Despite the challenges she has faced, Amanda remains determined to speak out against abusive behavior and support others who may be experiencing similar mistreatment.
The ongoing investigations and revelations surrounding Strictly Come Dancing have raised concerns about the show’s culture and treatment of contestants. With calls for better support, psychological testing, and accountability, the show faces a pivotal moment in addressing these issues and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all involved. The BBC has pledged to take duty of care seriously and strengthen welfare measures in response to these challenges.
