Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has given her response to the outcome of a BBC investigation concerning the behaviour of Giovanni Pernice. The Italian dancer came under scrutiny after accusations from Sherlock star Amanda Abbington of abusive behaviour during rehearsals, leading to Abbington leaving the show early due to enduring PTSD as a result. The results of the investigation, released on Monday (30 September), cleared Pernice of the more serious allegations but upheld complaints of verbal bullying and harassment made by Abbington. The BBC issued an apology to the actor following the investigation outcome.
During an event at the Henley Literary Festival on Tuesday (1 October), Ballas shared her thoughts on the matter, stating, “I don’t condone bullying. I’ve been through it myself. So if things aren’t right or need addressing, I feel for the person that wants them addressed. And I think that’s a big, important part that everybody gets to say their thing. But now the investigation is over and everybody can move on.” Ballas, promoting her new crime novel set in the ballroom dancing world, emphasised feeling safeguarded during her eight years on the show when bullying situations escalated.
As one of the prominent figures who supported Pernice during the controversy, Ballas had previously described him as a “perfect gentleman” and emphasised the need to await the investigation’s findings before passing judgment. Pernice, in a candid Instagram post, expressed relief that the investigation ordeal was over after seven months of enduring untrue and challenging media coverage without being able to respond publicly due to confidentiality restrictions.
While Abbington acknowledged the significance of the BBC’s apology, she indicated a potential consideration for further legal action post-investigation. The dancer and the broadcaster have now closed this chapter, with Pernice expressing the relief of moving past a tumultuous time under public scrutiny. The aftermath of this investigation sheds light on the importance of addressing bullying allegations in the entertainment industry and providing a platform for all parties involved to share their perspectives.