Amanda Abbington slams 'cruel, mean' Giovanni as she speaks out on Strictly 'abuse'

Actress Amanda Abbington has spoken out about her decision to leave Strictly Come Dancing early in 2023, stating she "would not have been able to live with myself" had she remained silent about her experience on the show.

The 50-year-old Sherlock star revealed that she deliberated "long and hard" before lodging a complaint with the BBC regarding the conduct of her former dance partner Giovanni Pernice, whom she described as "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean," due to anticipated "backlash".

Pernice, who has firmly denied "any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour" will not be returning to the dance competition this year. He has expressed on Instagram in June that he is "cooperating fully" with the "BBC investigation" that is currently underway.

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In an interview with the Sun On Sunday, Abbington recounted: "I found Giovanni's behaviour unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean. I couldn't sit back and let him do that to other people."

She continued, explaining her rationale for coming forward: "I had to think long and hard about making a complaint because I knew the backlash I would get. But I would not have been able to live with myself for future people going on that show."

Abbington was adamant about the evidence of the incident, saying, "I know what happened in that room, it's on video and I have no problem with anyone seeing that."

Emphasising the importance of a supportive environment, she added, "It's a duty of care that is needed."

She further commented on the need for respect and safety during rehearsals: "Rehearsal rooms should be a safe space, there is a duty of care and kindness, and that courtesy