Amanda Abbington opens up about her ‘toughest year’ following the Strictly investigation
Amanda Abbington has bravely shared her experiences, describing the last year as “the hardest year of my entire life” during her recent appearance on *This Morning*. This revelation comes on the heels of a significant BBC investigation that scrutinized her time on *Strictly Come Dancing*, particularly her partnership with Giovanni Pernice. The challenges she has faced have extended beyond the dance floor, impacting her personal life and well-being.
The Fallout from Strictly Come Dancing
In 2023, Abbington made the difficult decision to leave *Strictly Come Dancing* midway through the season. Her departure was prompted by serious allegations against her dance partner, Giovanni Pernice, whom she accused of exhibiting “unnecessary, cruel, and mean behaviour.” These allegations prompted the BBC to launch a robust investigation into the claims of workplace misconduct related to her experiences on the show.
The investigation, which concluded in September 2024, upheld several of Abbington’s complaints. Notably, it validated claims of harassment and verbal bullying against Pernice, although allegations of physical aggression were dismissed. This mixed outcome adds another layer of complexity to her already challenging year.
Impact on Personal Life
Throughout this tumultuous time, Abbington has also faced difficulties in her personal life. She revealed that her wedding plans with fiancé Jonathan Goodwin have been postponed until 2026. The delay is primarily attributed to ongoing legal issues related to the Strictly investigation. Both Abbington and Goodwin have expressed the emotional strain this situation has placed on their relationship, exacerbated by Goodwin’s recovery from a severe injury sustained during a stunt.
Abbington articulated her regret over the circumstances surrounding her departure but emphasized that she does not regret voicing her concerns. The impact of the investigation and the challenges she has encountered have been significant, leading to online harassment and threats aimed at her and her family. Despite this, Abbington remains resolute in her conviction that speaking out was necessary for her own validation and for the protection of others in similar situations.
Support from Loved Ones
During these difficult times, Abbington highlighted the unwavering support she has received from her fiancé, Jonathan Goodwin. Their bond has strengthened as they navigate these challenging circumstances together. Additionally, Abbington shared her pride in her children, who are increasingly showing interest in pursuing acting careers. She relishes the joy they bring amid the chaos and uncertainties surrounding her life.
Another key aspect of Abbington’s journey has been her determination to ensure that no other contestants on *Strictly Come Dancing* face similar issues in future seasons. She has become an advocate for addressing and resolving inappropriate behavior in the entertainment industry, forging a path towards a safer and more respectful environment for all performers.
Moving Forward
As Abbington reflects on the past year, she remains optimistic about the future. The validation she feels from the BBC’s investigation has empowered her to push for accountability and support for those who have not had a voice. Her experiences underscore the importance of dialogue surrounding workplace ethics and personal well-being in competitive environments.
In conclusion, Amanda Abbington’s journey following the Strictly investigation highlights not only her resilience in the face of adversity but also her commitment to effecting change within the industry. As she moves forward, she continues to advocate for others while pursuing her own healing and growth.
For anyone looking for updates on her journey or hoping to offer support, following Abbington’s story promises to be an inspiring and enlightening experience.
