Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood was 'blown away' by the Amanda Abbington rehearsal tape

Virgin Radio

2 Aug 2024, 15:50

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood said he was “blown away” after watching the rehearsal tape of Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice. 

Over the last few weeks, Amanda has made allegations against Giovanni, questioning his behaviour towards her during rehearsals for the BBC show. 

In a previous interview, she called Giovanni’s actions, “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” and, at the time, had some of their rehearsals filmed for review. This video is now part of an ongoing BCC investigation into Giovanni’s conduct.

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Giovanni has denied “any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour.”

Now, judge Craig has told This Morning that he has watched the video and opened up about his feelings following the allegations. 

"When the story erupted and came out in the press I was shocked along with all other judges," he said. "I couldn't quite believe it because we meet the pros and the celebs on occassion throughout the show but we're very separate."

Speaking more about the BBC’s internal investigation, Craig added: "I just want the investigation to be over so I can find out myself, the truth because I have nothing really to say. It's really hard to pass judgement or comment, on 'He said this, she said that'. It's really difficult.”

"It has erupted," he continued. "And, of course, I've watched the Amanda tape and all that sort of stuff, and I was just blown away by the whole situation."

He concluded: “Completely and utterly shocked by the whole situation."

Along with Giovanni, fellow professional dancer Graziano Di Prima is also being investigated for his behaviour towards dance partner Zara McDermott. 

In a statement posted to Instagram, Zara said she enjoyed “so much of [her] Strictly experience, but “inside the training room was very different.”

“Reports have been made about my treatment on the show and there were witnesses to some events, as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch.”

She added that she had “wrestled with the fear of opening up” because of “public backlash” but thanked the BBC for its “swift action and incredibly high level of support.”