Major twist in strictly bullying probe as mystery pal of Amanda Abbington asks other ‘victims’ to come forward
A MYSTERY pal of Amanda Abbingdon is asking anyone who has worked on Strictly to come forward if they experienced bad behaviour.
The online plea follows Sherlock actress Amanda quitting the hit BBC1 dance show and claiming pro partner Giovanni Pernice, 33, bullied her in rehearsals.
Giovanni — who denies any wrongdoing — left while BBC bosses investigate.
Writing in The TV Mindset, a social media forum for TV industry workers, an anonymous member insisted: “It is important to hear as many accounts as possible from others who were treated inappropriately, had grievances, or potentially identify others that were.
“This is crucial in supporting Amanda’s case, as well as potentially anyone else’s.
“It is also ultimately to support all freelancers and the industry as a whole by standing up to such practices.”
The writer assured anyone coming forward: “Sources would be protected.”
An email for responses was given as scdallies@gmail.com — believed to be short for Strictly Come Dancing Allies.
It is understood up to five celebrities have spoken to two ex-police officers leading the investigation.
Amanda, 52, and 39-year-old TV presenter Laura Whitmore, another former Strictly partner of Gio’s, have lodged complaints through Carter Ruck, a legal firm specialising in media law and reputation management.
Both Amanda and the BBC declined to comment.