Strictly Come Dancing, a beloved television staple, has recently faced a series of unsettling allegations. Actress Amanda Abbington’s complaints against her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice, have partly been upheld, raising questions about the show’s behind-the-scenes culture.
The Initial Allegations
Three days into the rehearsals for the 2023 season of Strictly Come Dancing, Amanda Abbington brought to light issues with her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice. The BBC has since apologised to Abbington, admitting to verbal bullying and harassment but cleared Pernice of the more severe allegations of physical aggression. This incident sparked a deeper investigation into the show’s working environment.
Wider Complaints Emerge
During the summer, more former contestants came forward. Zara McDermott reported her partner Graziano Di Prima kicked her during rehearsals. Some junior staff labelled the behind-the-scenes culture as ‘toxic.’ Despite this, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, Charlotte Moore, stated viewer figures were consistent year-to-year, attributing any dip to changes in viewing habits.
Responses from the Show’s Management
Charlotte Moore defended the show’s reputation, citing its long-standing record of providing a fantastic experience for most participants. She mentioned, ‘Strictly has been an absolutely brilliant show, and for the majority of people it’s been the most amazing experience.’ She also emphasised the rigorous nature of the investigation, although it took a year to conclude due to new evidence emerging.
Changes Implemented
In response to the complaints, the BBC introduced new duty of care measures. Production team members are now present during all training sessions, and two new welfare support roles have been added. Additionally, professional dancers, production team, and crew have received extra training. These steps are aimed at ensuring a safer and more supportive environment for all participants.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
The public’s reaction has been divided. Some fans expressed their discontent on social media, vowing never to watch the show again. Comments ranged from calling for the show’s cancellation to suggesting viewer votes on its future. Others defended the show, acknowledging its 20-year history and attributing the controversies to the general pressures of working in television.
Impact on Current Contestants
Despite the challenges, this year’s contestants have shown eagerness to move past the controversies. Popstar Toyah Willcox praised the team’s efforts to create a positive experience, while Love Island star Tasha Ghouri emphasised the importance of moving forward. The professional demeanour of current participants highlights their commitment to maintaining the show’s legacy.
The Industry Perspective
TV critic Scott Bryan described the ongoing saga as a ‘damaging story’ with potential long-term impacts on the show’s reputation. He noted that viewers care deeply about participants’ experiences, which could influence future series. The show continues to be a major highlight of the BBC’s programming, albeit with a shadow over its current season.
Looking Ahead
While the controversies have undeniably cast a shadow, the future of Strictly Come Dancing remains a subject of interest. As the new measures take effect, the show aims to restore its image and retain its place as a prime-time favourite. Whether these steps will be sufficient to regain full public trust remains to be seen.
The revelations surrounding Strictly Come Dancing have undoubtedly stirred controversy. However, with new measures now in place, the future of the show lies in its ability to adapt and maintain the trust of its audience. Time will reveal the lasting impact of these events.
