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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Entertainment
Tina Campbell

Susanna Reid backs Amanda Abbington in Giovanni Pernice Strictly 'feud'

Susanna Reid has lent her support to Amanda Abbington amid her ongoing "feud" with Giovanni Pernice.

The Sherlock actress, 51, was paired with the Italian dancer during last year's series of Strictly Come Dancing, but dropped out after week five, citing "personal issues".

At the time it was reported that she and Pernice had fallen out, something Abbington strongly denied.

Now, she claims that Pernice's "full-on methods" left her suffering with PTSD and has requested footage from their rehearsals.

Good Morning Britain host Reid, who competed herself in 2013, says she is "sure Amanda must have a reason to ask for the footage".

Amanda Abbington pictured with former Strictly dancer partner Giovanni Pernice (BBC)

During Wednesday's edition of the show, Reid discussed the situation with co-host Richard Madeley and showbiz correspondent Richard Arnold.

Arnold, who was in Strictly back in 2012, reflected: "Rehearsals can get a little bit tense... and certainly when the competition ramps up it can get a bit tense but my experience was a great experience."

Reid added: "It's a shame for anyone who didn't have a good experience, because, at it's best, it is a sparkling wonderland.

"Obviously some contestants don't have that experience. I am, sure Amanda has reason to ask for that footage it seems."

Agreeing, Madeley added: "She wouldn't asked for the footage if she didn't think there was something on it to justify her complaints. Why ask for it? She knows what happened".

Amanda Abbington says taking part in Strictly left her with PTSD (PA Media)

Arnold then awkwardly announced: "Moving on!" 

According to The Sun, the BBC arranged a call between Pernice's management and Strictly executives where they offered him their full support and checked in on his mental health.

Giovanni is understood to have been assured that his place on the show is secure.

A source said: "It's no secret Gio and Amanda had a tricky relationship — but there are two sides to every story.

"Bosses arranged a call between his management and show execs to discuss recent coverage and make sure he was OK as obviously he's faced a hell of a lot of stick over the past couple of months.

"The feeling is he is a tough taskmaster, but hasn't bullied or abused anyone. The BBC see him as a key face of Strictly and will do all they can to support him."

In a statement to The Mirror on Monday, a BBC spokesperson said: “The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows.

“Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly.

“Strictly has a proud track record as a joyful, positive experience where robust support and assistance is always made available at every stage of the production.”

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