Amanda Abbington receives death threats
Actress Amanda Abbington revealed she received death threats following the disclosure of her PTSD related to her time on Strictly Come Dancing.
The Sherlock and Mr Selfridge star asked BBC bosses for footage of rehearsals with pro dance partner Giovanni Pernice, 33, after clashes between the pair.
Amanda, who has two children with her actor ex Martin Freeman, 52, told The Sun on Sunday: “I just want to thank everyone who has been so kind and lovely and supportive this past week.
“It means a great, great deal.
“I was diagnosed with mild PTSD after Strictly for several reasons and I told a few people about that, in the utmost confidence, among other things that were happening in my life at the time both professionally and personally.
“I’m very sorry that people felt the need to send me death threats, threaten my children and bring up my past, healthy relationship with an ex-partner as an indicator of my current mental health. I wish those people well.”
Giovanni Pernice reveals tour amid misconduct probe
Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice has announced a major 78-date UK tour, just days ahead of the results of a BBC misconduct investigation.
The 33-year-old Italian dancer quit the show earlier this year.
His exit came as he is currently under investigation by the BBC over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners – claims he strongly denies.
Previously, The Sun reported claims the investigation was coming in at a fee of more than £250,000.
Ex-Strictly pros mock bullying allegations
Former Strictly Come Dancing pros James Jordan and Brendan Cole have ridiculed recent bullying accusations surrounding the show.
James, whose wife Ola was once accused of bullying as a professional dancer, mocked the claims during a filmed rehearsal with former Strictly stars.
In the video, he quipped, “This is what happens when you don’t have chaperones,” as the camera revealed Brendan with a bloodied nose, while fellow ex-pro Ian Waite apologised and Vincent Simone burst into laughter.
Will hosts address the bullying scandal?
When Phil Schofield left This Morning following a scandal, his departure was addressed on air.
However, the absence of Giovanni and Graziano is unlikely to be mentioned, with slim chances of any public acknowledgment regarding the bullying allegations.
Brand and culture expert Nick Ede says: “It’s difficult because it’s a family show, and kids are gonna be watching it with their moms and aunties and grandmothers.
“And you don’t want to start a show which is celebrating its 20 years with something negative.
“I can’t imagine Claudia or Tess addressing the nation in that respect, because it kind of implicates everybody.”
Toyah Willcox reveals safety measures
Strictly Come Dancing star Toyah Willcox has shared details about the safety measures in place for the show’s celebrities.
The 66-year-old singer-songwriter, who was announced last month as one of this year’s contestants, discussed the precautions taken to ensure the stars’ well-being.
In a blog post on her official website, Toyah discussed how the show has been looking after its famous faces – in light of its recent controversy.
She penned: “I feel safe with this team.
“We have a psychologist with us all day, an amazing celeb producer, stunning press team…….It’s a long time since I have felt this well looked after.
“What I mean by this is touring demands a level of complete independence, I do my own make up, carry my costumes etc, here in Strictly world they want us celebs to know they are here to support us 360 degrees.”
Pete Wicks spotted ‘cosying up’ to Strictly pro
Pete Wicks was seen getting close to a Strictly Come Dancing professional ahead of his upcoming debut this weekend.
The former Only Way Is Essex star seems to be building connections with the professional dancers on the show, which has recently faced some controversy.
Pete, 36, was reportedly spotted cosying up to Jowita Przystał at this year’s National Television Awards.
