GMB’s Ranvir Singh makes feelings clear after verdict on her former Strictly dance partner Giovanni Pernice
Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh has broken her silence after the findings of the investigation into Amanda Abbington’s complaints against Giovanni Pernice were released. Ranvir appeared on Strictly back in 2020 where she was partnered with Giovanni and the duo made it all the way to the semi-finals before being eliminated.
Now the 47 year old has shared her opinions on the verdict, revealing that she was “pleased” that Amanda Abbington received an apology and that the investigation had concluded. Ranvir made the statements on Good Morning Britain when Susanna Reid asked her what she thought of the investigation now that the findings had been published.
“I was pleased to see that the BBC investigation had concluded – it had been going on for some time – and that it ended with an apology to Amanda. I was pleased to see that,” she said.
READ MORE:Amanda Abbington's claims over Giovanni Pernice - from 'sexual gestures' to 35min rant
READ MORE:Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas breaks silence after BBC bullying report
“I think that it can only be a good thing that these extra welfare measures have now been put in place on the back of this investigation because ultimately, Strictly is a show that everyone should be having a good time on. It’s entertaining, it’s joyful and everybody should be having a good time whether they work on the show, and the audience at home should feel comfortable that it’s what everyone is experiencing.”
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The investigation, which lasted six months, concluded that the pro dancer was not abusive, threatening or intimidating. Complaints of verbal bullying and harassment were upheld, but claims of physical aggression were not, it has been reported. Out of 17 allegations, they are thought to have upheld six, some of which involved Giovanni using swear words.
In its statement following the investigation, the BBC apologised to Amanda. It said: “We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made. We want to apologise to Amanda Abbington and to thank her for coming forward and taking part. We know this would not have been an easy thing to do.”
Following the publication of the findings, Giovanni said that he was glad that it was over and thanked his fans for their support. “I’m always grateful to all of you, and I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart and saying that I love you all and always, always thank you,” he said.
Meanwhile Amanda released a powerful statement in which she said she had been “vindicated”. She wrote: “Despite this vile abuse, I’ve never regretted coming forward, and today’s apology from the BBC is a vindication of my complaint. It’s not just a vindication for me, it’s a vindication for the other people who have contacted me since I made my complaint to express concerns about their own experiences on Strictly Come Dancing.”