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Privacy Notice Amanda Abbington has spoken out about the horrific bomb and death threats she received following the Strictly Come Dancing scandal. Initially, the actress cited “medical reasons,” for her departure from the BBC show last year, but later filed a complaint against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. In a BBC Newsnight interview, she described the period since the complaint as “the worst year of her life”. Amanda has now revealed that she received threats while preparing for her production, When It Happens To You, including warnings that she would be “stabbed” if she proceeded with the show. Despite being “terrified”, she refused to “let bullies win” and continued with the performance. In an interview with Closer, Amanda stated: “We had death threats and bomb threats at the theatre. Specifically at me, because of Strictly.” She added: “Every night I went out – they’re not going to stop me doing my job. It’s terrifying but I just think I’m not going to let the bullies win.”, reports Birmingham Live. The BBC apologised to 53 year old Amanda after upholding six of her 17 complaints, including allegations of verbal bullying and harassment against Pernice, as reported by BBC News. However, Pernice was cleared of physical aggression and has consistently denied the allegations against him.
Gio and Amanda on Strictly
(Image: BBC)
Scotland Yard revealed in August that an investigation was underway into the menacing messages sent to ex-Sherlock actress Amanda. A spokesperson told the Standard: “We were called at about 10am on Monday, August 12 by a staff member at a theatre in Finsbury Park following receipt of an alleged malicious communication.” The police confirmed that no arrests have been made. However, Amanda expressed relief that she spoke out about the issue. She believes it’s essential to “stand up and say something” when “something is bothering you”. Although she had to leave the competition, her love for dancing remains, and she often finds herself dancing in her kitchen. Following her time on Strictly, Amanda expressed hesitation about participating in another reality show, instead expressing interest in joining the cast of EastEnders. In response to the incidents, the BBC has implemented changes to the current series of Strictly, including the presence of chaperones during rehearsals and the introduction of new welfare workers. Additionally, 15 observers have been assigned to monitor rehearsals in the training room.Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterMore OnEastEndersStrictly Come DancingGiovanni Pernice
