Strictly Come Dancing Faces Abuse Allegations

Strictly Come Dancing is currently embroiled in its most significant scandal since its inception, with serious allegations of bullying and abusive behavior directed at professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima. The controversy gained traction following Amanda Abbington's departure from the show after she reported 'tense' training sessions with Pernice, whom she accused of showing 'bullying' behavior. In light of these allegations, the BBC will require professional dancers to undergo psychological assessments and added chaperones to rehearsals. Pernice has denied all wrongdoing, but he was notably excluded from the 2024 lineup, along with Di Prima, who faced claims of mistreatment towards his partner Zara McDermmott. Former contestant Kevin Clifton had previously hinted at underlying issues between professionals and their celebrity partners, reflecting on the nature of interactions off-camera. As the show grapples with its reputation and the implications of these allegations, it remains to be seen how the upcoming series will unfold.