fire BBC Strictly Come Dancing professionals amid scandal

Craig Revel Horwood, a long-standing judge on BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing," has publicly defended the show's professional dancers amidst allegations of a toxic training environment. The 59-year-old choreographer, who has been part of the series since its inception in 2004, emphasized that the competitive nature of dance can lead to challenging working conditions, which may be difficult for celebrities to adapt to. His comments come in the wake of actress Amanda Abbington's dramatic exit from last season after a fallout with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. The controversy surrounding the show intensified following Abbington's departure, which was accompanied by accusations against Pernice and fellow dancer Graziano Di Prima regarding their conduct. Revel Horwood, who has extensive experience in the dance industry, suggested that the rigorous training expected on the show is akin to that faced by athletes in other sports, where high-pressure environments are commonplace. He noted that celebrities, often accustomed to a more comfortable lifestyle, may find the demands of the show particularly daunting. In his defense of Pernice and Di Prima, Revel Horwood described them as "charming" individuals, countering the negative narratives that have emerged. Reports have surfaced alleging that Graziano engaged in inappropriate behavior during rehearsals, while Abbington has sought to recover footage from the BBC to substantiate her claims of an unprofessional atmosphere. As the 2024 season approaches, the show faces scrutiny, but Revel Horwood remains steadfast in his support of the professionals involved.