Strictly's bullying investigation to be made public in DAYS after Huw Edwards 'caused delay'

The BBC's investigation into the Strictly bullying allegations will be made public next week, after dealing with the Huw Edwards scandal caused a delay.

An investigation was launched internally at the BBC after actress Amanda Abbington accused her Strictly pro partner Giovanni Pernice of being "abusive, cruel and mean" during rehearsals for the show. The 50-year-old Sherlock star complained that during her five weeks on last year's series, she was traumatised by his inappropriate behaviour, before she pulled out of the show early. Amanda also claims to have been diagnosed with PTSD as a result of her appearance on the show.

The report, which was initially said to be ready in time for the new series, was reportedly delayed due to Huw Edwards' court case. Edwards, who was a highly regarded BBC journalist, was handed a suspended prison sentence for accessing 41 indent images of children earlier this month.

But now, following the months long investigation and the handling of Edwards' scandal, the Strictly report is imminent. A source told The Sun: "The process has taken longer than many in the Corporation wanted, but there’s reasons for that." They added about the BBC: "They’re still reeling from the fallout of the Huw Edwards scandal so they didn’t want to be juggling two major crises at the same time."

But although the result of the report will be communicated to those involved, it's likely that a lot of the details will stay private, with reports likely to only be sent to "Amanda, Giovanni and their legal teams". The source warned that although bosses at the BBC hoped the report would mark the end of matter, it's "very unlikely" that it will be over at this stage.

They added: "Whatever the outcome, neither Giovanni nor Amanda are likely to be happy so the BBC are bracing themselves for potential appeals."

Amanda was partnered with 33-year-old professional Giovanni Pernice and reports initially suggested there was a strong friendship between the two. But they dropped out of the series after just six weeks, citing health issues as the reason.

By the start of this year, new details painted a more sinister picture, with alleged abuse behind-the-scenes, that led Amanda to leave the show. She then filed a complaint against the BBC show, accusing Giovanni of abusive behaviour. Giovanni has strongly denied all accusations against him.

After it was reported that the results of the investigation could clear Giovanni, Amanda is said to be indifferent to the report. A source told The Sun on Sunday: "Whatever the outcome of the inquiry, Amanda has no regrets. She knows what went on in that rehearsal room. And she knows it was unacceptable. Amanda has given the BBC all the information she can to help them with the investigation.

"Amanda was greatly reassured during her first interview when she was told by the BBC investigators that her account was fully believed - and now it is down to the corporation to release their findings. Her biggest concern, from day one, has been to ensure that others don’t have to go through the same traumatic experience that she has."

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