An industry insider has reportedly called for anyone who has been 'treated inappropriately' while working on Strictly Come Dancing to come forward.
The BBC launched an investigation after Strictly dancerGiovanni Pernice, 33, was accused of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' while working with celebrity contestants on the show, including Amanda Abbington,Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore.
Last month the names of the professional dancers who will appear next series were announced - with Giovanni's name absentamid the probe into alleged workplace 'misconduct', which he has strongly denied.
And now The Sunreports that an industry insider has issued a plea to anyone else who has experience bad behaviour on the show to speak out, in order to support Amanda's case.
According to the publication, an anonymous person wrote the post in The TV Mindset, a social media forum for TV industry workers.
An industry insider has reportedly called for anyone who has been 'treated inappropriately' while working on Strictly Come Dancing to come forward (Amanda Abbington pictured)
The BBC launched an investigation after Strictly dancer Giovanni Pernice (pictured in 2022), 33, was accused of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' while working with celebrity contestants on the show, including Amanda Abbington , Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore
They report it read: 'It is important to hear as many accounts as possible from others who were treated inappropriately, had grievances, or potentially identify others that were.
'This is crucial in supporting Amanda’s case, as well as potentially anyone else’s. It is also ultimately to support all freelancers and the industry as a whole by standing up to such practices.'
The writer allegedly assured that 'sources would be protected', while directing responses to the email address 'scdallies@gmail.com' believed to be short for Strictly Come Dancing Allies.
Representatives for Amanda told MailOnline that the insider was unknown to them and acting outside their knowledge.
It has previously been reported that up to five celebrities have 'already provided formal statements' to two ex-Metropolitan Police detectives who are leading the enquiry.
The Sunstates Sam Bickley, the BBC’s duty of care executive, is expected to address the matter for the first time on Tuesday.
A source said the investigation could 'extend into next year' and management feel there is significant 'pressure' to ensure it is as thorough as possible.
The insider said: 'Up to five stars have presented evidence in statements and WhatsApp exchanges. Gio is likely to be quizzed last, once everything else is in order.
And now The Sun reports that an industry insider has issued a plea to anyone else who has experience bad behaviour on the show to speak out, in order to support Amanda's case
It has previously been reported that up to five celebrities have 'already provided formal statements' to two ex-Metropolitan Police detectives who are leading the enquiry (pictured with Laura Whitmore in 2016)
'He’s more than happy to speak to investigators and is determined to clear his name.'
The source added the BBC are hoping the findings will not be published in the middle of the upcoming series as the show celebrates its 20th anniversary.
It comes after theStrictly Come Dancing cast have reportedly been banned from discussing the'bullying row'.
'Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.
Bosses are said to be worried the family-friendly reputation of the show is tainted and want to do everything they can to stop people from talking.
Amanda left the competition mid-way through the series, citing personal reasons after weeks of rumours about a feud with Giovanni.
The Sherlock star said she was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and demanded to see footage from rehearsals.
Amanda later rubbished reports Giovanni had asked the BBC to record his rehearsals with the actress over growing concerns about her behaviour - claiming she had requested their dance practices to be filmed, not him.
A spokesman for Giovanni said the dancer strongly denies the claims being made about him and confirmed that he is fully cooperating with the investigation
'I asked for them to be recorded, it was me. Giovanni is nasty. He was awful to a few of us, a group of us.'
The actress is said to have met withLaura and Ranvirearlier this year for an 'emotional summit' to 'compare notes' about their time working with Giovanni amid the BBC's probe.
Giovanni launched a fightback by hiring rival law firm Schillings. His case is being handled by Joelle Rich, 39, who represented Johnny Depp in his libel trial in 2020.
A spokesman for Giovanni said: 'Schillings is engaging with BBC Studios to provide it with Giovanni's evidence to strongly rebut the claims being made about him and confirm Giovanni is fully cooperating.
'As with any reality TV show, when decisions are being made for entertainment reasons, the producers have a duty of care to all participants.'
Giovanni also shared a post to Instagram detailing that he was 'totally surprised' by the allegations, which he denies.
He said in a statement: 'You will be as surprised as I am that allegations have been made about my dance teaching methods in the media this week.
'Of course, I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name.
'Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No-one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.
'I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners.
'Thank you all once again for your continued love and support!'
Meanwhile Amanda reported receiving death threats from Giovanni’s fans after claiming she developed PTSD from her experience with him.
The actress deleted her social media accounts, just hours after it was confirmed the professional dancer would not be returning to the series.
