Strictly Come Dancing judge speaks out on investigation results: “A weight has been lifted”

Strictly Come Dancing judge speaks out on investigation results: “A weight has been lifted”

As a seasoned movie critic with over three decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the recent events surrounding Strictly Come Dancing have been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Having witnessed countless productions grapple with their fair share of controversies, it’s heartening to see a show as beloved as Strictly finally reaching some form of closure.


Craig Revel Horwood, a judge on Strictly Come Dancing, expressed satisfaction that the investigation conducted by the BBC about their popular dance competition has been wrapped up.

Today (October 4th), during his appearance on Lorraine, Horwood talked about the ambiance within the Strictly camp following the recent revelations that surfaced earlier in the week.

Speaking with Christine Lampard, Horwood explained: “There’s definitely a distinction here. It feels as if a burden has been removed from us, one that we carried for quite some time without resolution.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I must say, I’m overjoyed that this investigation has finally concluded. Now, we can shift our focus towards celebrating our remarkable 20 years of screen presence. This show is simply extraordinary, and it’s disheartening when obstacles like these arise. So, let’s press ahead, let’s move on, and savor the journey that lies ahead.

On Monday, the 30th of September, the BBC offered an apology to Amanda Abbington following their examination of allegations she had made against Giovanni Pernice, a previous contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

According to a report from BBC News, allegations made by Abbington regarding verbal mistreatment and harassment were found to be valid. However, accusations concerning physical assaults and intimidating actions were not substantiated in the report.

Following the announcement, Abbington considered the apology as validation for her grievance, whereas a representative for Pernice expressed satisfaction that the report did not uncover any signs of aggressive or offensive conduct on his part.

Strictly Come Dancing judge speaks out on investigation results: “A weight has been lifted”

After examining the grievances, the BBC’s statement says: “We found merit in some, but not all, of the complaints. We wish to extend our apologies to Amanda Abbington and express our gratitude for her courage in bringing these issues forward. We understand that it was not an easy decision.

Initially, our team attempted to resolve the problems as they perceived them, but unfortunately, those efforts fell short. That’s why the additional steps we’ve implemented to bolster our current guidelines become crucial.

As a dedicated movie-goer, I’d like to share an update: In the future, someone from the Strictly Come Dancing crew will join the practice sessions, according to BBC’s confirmation.

Previously, Horwood expressed approval for the actions the show took following the accusations, expressing shock at the time by stating he was “astonished” by the investigation.

Given the BBC’s revelations on Monday, here’s what I expressed in response: “Regardless of the repugnant treatment I faced, I stand firm that I made the right decision in speaking up, and today’s apology from the BBC serves as validation for my initial complaint.

This achievement isn’t merely a validation for myself, it’s also a validation for all the individuals who reached out to me after my complaint, sharing their own concerns about Strictly Come Dancing. I hope this moment encourages those who have hesitated to speak up, feeling unheard or disbelieved, to find the courage now, knowing that they will be heard and believed.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d say, “It’s crucial that we move forward with the understanding that valuable lessons have been gleaned. The BBC should honor their pledge for necessary changes, so no one else endures the hardships similar to those faced by myself and others.

Simultaneously, Pernice commented in a release: “It’s a relief that the investigation has concluded at last. It’s reassuring to know that the accusations of my aggressive and threatening behavior were found unsubstantiated.

This year has been incredibly challenging for me, as I’ve found myself reading story after story without being able to respond due to my commitment to upholding the integrity of the review, a requirement set by the BBC.

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has stood by me during these trying times. Honestly, I’m not sure I could have made it through without the warmth of my family, the camaraderie of my friends, the trust of my colleagues, and the faith of my fans.

Strictly Come Dancing 2024 continues every Saturday night on BBC One and iPlayer.

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2024-10-04 14:33