Strictly: Amanda Abbington accuses Giovanni Pernice of ‘cruel’ behaviour

Abbington said she felt rehearsal rooms should be “a safe space”, with “a duty of care and kindness”.

“That courtesy wasn’t extended to me on this job,” she said.

She said she wanted to complain as she did not think it was fair.

“It’s insane what has happened to me, with the death threats and backlash,” she added.

She claimed concerns about Pernice’s alleged behaviour were flagged to producers in the past and “nothing was done”.

“It wasn’t an isolated experience with me. I should never ever have danced with him.”

In a statement provided to BBC News, Pernice’s spokesperson said: “The BBC has shared allegations from the inquiry with Giovanni, who has cooperated fully. None of the allegations carried in the Sun on Sunday are included in any shape or form.

“Giovanni refutes these allegations and denies any accusations of abusive or threatening behaviour.

“He has provided substantive evidence to the investigation, and he remains fully confident of clearing his name.”

Last month, it was announced Pernice would not return to Strictly for this year’s series.