BBC's Investigation into Amanda Abbington's Claims
The BBC has reportedly invested a significant amount of money to thoroughly investigate actress Amanda Abbington's allegations against her former show partner, Giovanni Pernice. The broadcaster's alleged substantial financial commitment follows revelations from The Celeb Report about Giovanni's unexpected phone call to his 2023 Strictly partner during the investigation.
Details of the Investigation
According to reports, the BBC has spent over £250,000 on the probe into Amanda Abbington's accusations against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. The investigation, which involves recruiting extra staff and former Metropolitan Police officers to lead the inquiry, is still ongoing.
Giovanni Pernice's Exit and Denials
Giovanni, 33, left the BBC show earlier this year amidst allegations of misconduct by several of his former celebrity dance partners, including Abbington. He strongly denies the claims against him and is currently under investigation by the BBC.
Financial Strain and External Staff Involvement
Reports indicate that the investigation includes payments for ex-Metropolitan Police officers and external staff, such as HR personnel, to gather testimonies from celebrities and professionals associated with the show. The financial burden and involvement of various legal representatives have posed challenges for the BBC.
Delays in the Investigation Outcome
Despite being close to revealing their findings, the investigation faced delays due to new evidence emerging. Amanda Abbington, who accused Giovanni of abusive behavior, expressed shock when he attempted to contact her during the inquiry, prompting further scrutiny into the matter.
Impact on Strictly and Future Plans
The prolonged investigation and associated controversies have cast a shadow over the upcoming 20th-anniversary series of Strictly Come Dancing. Producers are keen to resolve the issue swiftly to prevent further disruptions to the show's reputation and smooth operation.
