Giovanni Pernice breaks silence after Strictly investigation as BBC apologises to Amanda Abbington

ok.co.uk:

Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice has broken his silence after the findings of the investigation into Amanda Abbington’s complaints against him were released today.The BBC has apologised to Amanda, saying it had assessed and “upheld some, but not all” of her complaints about Giovanni’s behaviour during her time on the show.There were no findings relating to physical aggression, but complaints of verbal bullying and harassment were upheld, the PA news agency understands.

Amanda and Giovanni were partnered on the BBC dance show last year, but the Sherlock actress pulled out citing “personal reasons”, later claimed she was subject to a “toxic environment” and “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying”.The review into Amanda’s complaints about Giovanni was launched earlier this year.The 34 year old, who is not part of this year’s Strictly professional dancing line-up and has since joined the Italian version of the show, Ballando con le Stelle, previously rejected “any claim of threatening or abusive behaviour”.

A spokeswoman for Giovanni welcomed the review, saying they are “pleased that this six-month review has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour by Giovanni”.

They added: “Giovanni is relieved that the overwhelming majority of allegations out to the BBC have not been upheld and looks forward to continuing his work on Dancing With The Stars in Italy this season.” The BBC said on Monday: “We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made. “We want to apologise to Amanda Abbington and to thank her for coming forward and taking part.