Amanda Abbington ‘considering suing BBC’ after Giovanni Pernice Strictly probe

ok.co.uk:

Amanda Abbington is reportedly considering taking legal action against the BBC for loss of income and damages after the broadcaster's investigation into claims that she was bullied by Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice.The Sherlock star, who exited the popular BBC One show last year citing "personal reasons," accused the programme of creating a "toxic environment" rife with "inappropriate, mean, and nasty bullying." Giovanni was cleared of allegations of threatening and abusive behaviour when the BBC concluded its inquiry into the complaints made against him.

On Monday, September 30, the corporation released the findings and issued an apology to Amanda, reports the Mirror. The BBC extended an apology to Amanda after it "upheld some, but not all" complaints about the Italian dancer during her time on the dance competition, validating six out of the total 17 complaints she had filed.The investigation unveiled occurrences of "inappropriate behaviour of sexual banter in the workplace," one of which involved Giovanni making an improper gesture, which went against the policies of the corporation.

Upon the disclosure by the BBC, Amanda remarked that speaking up "was not an easy thing to do".The BBC stated: "Strictly Come Dancing is a family show and we rightly expect very high standards.

While competition can be strict, rigorous and demanding, we want the show to ultimately be a joyous and transformative experience. "It is a great shame if this hasn't been the case for everyone who has appeared on the show.