The BBC is set to release a bombshell report today into the Strictly Come Dancing scandal involving Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington.
After months of anticipation following Amanda's allegations against Giovanni's conduct, the findings are finally expected to be disclosed this Monday afternoon. This revelation comes just weeks after the hit dance competition celebrated its 20th series on air.
Amanda has been vocal about her experience with Giovanni, 34, accusing him of bullying during their practice sessions. She has publicly criticised his teaching approach, labelling it as "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean", accusations which he has strongly refuted.
In a candid interview, Amanda likened her time on the show to being "in the trenches", recounting to Channel 4 News how BBC producers were left "horrified" by footage that supported her claims of "humiliating behaviour of a sexual nature."
The 50 year old actress exited the competition early, despite participating for several weeks, reports the Mirror.
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Furthermore, Amanda has disclosed that she was diagnosed with mild PTSD following her stint on Strictly. Insiders speaking to The Sun have suggested that the investigation's report was postponed due to complications arising from the Huw Edwards case, stating: "The process has taken longer than many in the Corporation wanted, but there are reasons for that."
An insider has revealed that the BBC is still grappling with the aftermath of the Huw Edwards scandal and didn't want to handle two major crises simultaneously. "They're still reeling from the fallout of the Huw Edwards scandal so they didn't want to be juggling two major crises at the same time."
However, while those involved will be informed about the outcome of the report into the Strictly Come Dancing controversy, it's expected that many details will remain confidential, with only "Amanda, Giovanni and their legal teams" likely to receive full reports.
The source cautioned that despite hopes from BBC bosses that the report would close the chapter on the issue, it's "very unlikely" to be the end of the matter. "Whatever the outcome, neither Giovanni nor Amanda are likely to be happy so the BBC are bracing themselves for potential appeals."
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Amanda Abbington initially cited health reasons for her abrupt exit from the show, but as the new year dawned, she lodged a formal complaint against the BBC programme, alleging abusive behaviour by her dance partner, which he has refuted.
In a turn of events, Giovanni Pernice has been wowing judges on Italy's version of Strictly, Ballando con le Stelle. Leaving behind the controversy, he has teamed up with actress Bianca Guaccero, earning an impressive 37 out of 40 points from the panel.
