The BBC are reportedly preparing to release the details of the Strictly Come Dancing probe involving Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington.
Amanda, 50, claimed Giovanni’s behaviour during their training sessions was “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” and lodged a formal complaint against her dance partner.
Giovanni, 34, has denied all accusations. Bosses at the BBC have been looking into the allegations for the past four months, with the investigation taking longer than expected due to the “difficult timing” following the Huw Edwards scandal.
However, corporation executives are finally set to share details of the probe. A source claimed that neither Giovanni or Amanda are likely to be happy with the outcome.
The source told The Sun: “The BBC plans to update all sides on the outcome of the review early next week. The process has taken longer than many in the Corporation wanted, but there’s reasons for that.
“Timing has also been very difficult for the Beeb. 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.”
The source continued: “But they now feel in a position to announce what they’ve decided.” It is believed only a few details will be made public.
They added: “The BBC will make a statement on the findings but a lot of the report is likely to remain private and will only be sent to Amanda, Giovanni and their legal teams. Executives hope it will draw a line under the matter but, in reality, it’s very unlikely that it will do that.”
The insider went on: “Whatever the outcome, neither Giovanni nor Amanda are likely to be happy so the BBC are bracing themselves for potential appeals.
“Amanda and Giovanni have very well-paid lawyers who will study every cough and spit of the report before advising them on what to do next. The BBC could be dealing with this for months and months.”
In July, Graziano Di Prima was dropped from the show after it was revealed he kicked Zara McDermott during training. BBC boss Tim Davie addressed the scandal and apologised for the “disappointing” allegations.
