Amanda Abbington breaks down over Strictly row - and claims BBC withheld 50 hours of Giovanni footage

ok.co.uk:

Strictly Come Dancing's Amanda Abbington has opened up about her experience on the BBC show in her first televised interview, revealing that she felt "abandoned" by the BBC over claims she made about her professional partner Giovanni Pernice.

The Sherlock star, 50, pulled out of the dance competition last year and later complained about the conduct of Giovanni, describing him as "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean".The BBC has launched an inquiry into Amanda's complaint and Giovanni - who has left the show - said earlier this year: "I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name." Speaking to Channel 4 News ahead of tonight's episode, Amanda said of the backlash she faced when speaking out about her experience: "It's been brutal, and relentless and unforgiving.The aftermath has been something that I wasn't expecting.

You know, the death threats and the rape threats towards not only myself but my daughter, and threats of deaths to my son," according to The Mirror.

She added that her lawyers are currently trying to access 50 hours of rehearsal room footage filmed by BBC bosses, who installed cameras after she raised her initial concerns.