BBC in crisis talks over Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice controversy

BBC executives are currently in crisis talks due to concerns surrounding a report involving Amanda Abbington and her former Strictly Come Dancing partner, Giovanni Pernice. Abbington has accused Pernice of bullying, a claim he denies. The BBC is apprehensive about the potential legal repercussions from either party based on the investigation's outcome, leading to high-level meetings to determine how to communicate the findings without inciting further complaints. Sources indicate that the situation has caused significant anxiety within the organization, with fears that the results could lead to legal action from either Abbington or Pernice. The uncertainty surrounding the investigation has delayed the release of the findings, as executives strive to ensure that the wording of the report does not provoke dissatisfaction from either side. This predicament is compounded by the impending launch of the new Strictly Come Dancing series, which is set to begin shortly. Friends of Abbington have expressed their frustration with the BBC, alleging that the organization operates like a 'boys club' and fearing that the investigation's outcome may not favor her. They have also voiced concerns about the possibility of a 'whitewash' in the findings. Despite the predominantly female leadership in the production of Strictly, the ultimate decision-making authority rests with Director-General Tim Davie, who is perceived as facing an impossible situation. Pernice, who has been a part of Strictly since 2014, resigned after Abbington lodged an official complaint, leading to a legal battle between the two parties. The ongoing investigation and its implications have created a tense atmosphere as the BBC navigates this complex issue.