Strictly launches tough new rules to stamp out bullying as scandal-hit series returns
STRICTLY Come Dancing’s new chaperones have been told to call a helpline if they witness bad behaviour at rehearsals.
BBC bosses have instructed the “training room researchers” to phone senior staff immediately if there is misconduct involving a pro dancer and celebrity partner.
It comes after actress Amanda Abbington complained Giovanni Pernice was bullying her and acting inappropriately during training sessions last year.
Another pro dancer, Graziano Di Prima, 30, was axed from the show amid claims he hit, kicked and spat at former Made in Chelsea star Zara McDermott, 27, last year.
Chaperones are tasked with keeping a log in the training room for eight hours a day across a four-day week during the 20th anniversary series.
It started on BBC1 last night, as the latest dance partnerships were confirmed.
We revealed the 15 monitoring staff had been recruited and a source said: “They’ve been told to log positive moments in rehearsals as well as anything that could be called into question.
“However, it has been stressed that they should call the helpline immediately if anything bad happens to ensure that any wrongdoing is dealt with promptly.”
The source added: “It will also be protocol for the researchers to move between different training rooms so they don’t become too pally with the professional dancers and celebrities.”
Meanwhile, Giovanni, 34, yesterday posed with his new dance partner — Italian actress Bianca Guaccero, 43 — after it was revealed he was joining the Italian version, Ballando con le Stelle.
In June, it was revealed he would not be returning to Strictly after we first revealed tensions between him and Sherlock star Amanda, 52, who quit and said she had been diagnosed with PTSD.
A Beeb report is expected any day now on its investigation into complaints by several of his ex-celeb dance partners – claims he strongly denies.
The Corporation was approached for comment.
Partners revealed
STRICTLY Come Dancing kicked off its 20th anniversary series by announcing the pairings last night.
Hosts Tess Daly, 55, and Claudia Winkleman, 52, introduced the 15 celebrities and their partners who will compete for the glitterball.
DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, 61, partnered with Luba Mushtuk, 34, and Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, 26, was paired with returning pro Aljaž Škorjanec, 34.
It is the first time in four years that there is no same-sex pairing.
AMANDA’S KRISH AID
Exclusive by Hannah Hope
KRISHNAN Guru-Murthy has given evidence backing Amanda Abbington in the Giovanni Pernice probe.
The Channel 4 newsreader, 54, took part in last year’s series alongside the actress, 50.
A source said: “Krishnan always likes to stand up for what is right and was happy to give evidence.”
Amanda complained about the behaviour of her pro partner Giovanni, 34, after quitting early. The BBC failed to release its findings ahead of last night’s launch show.