Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has talked about the role of pro dancers on the popular BBC show, after the Amanda Abbington row.
The actress, who was paired with Giovanni Pernice in the most recent series but withdrew due to personal reasons, has recently requested to see footage from rehearsals.
Calling the pros the “backbone” of the show, Horwood told The Sun: “The pros not only have to be creative and be able to be good choreographers, they also have to be psychiatrists, doctors, they have to be nurses, they have to be welfare guidance people.”
“It’s not just teaching dance,” he added.
Related: Strictly‘s Shirley Ballas defends Giovanni Pernice amid Amanda Abbington row
After her exit in October, Abbington, best known for her roles in Sherlock and Mr Selfridge, denied rumours that she left due to her relationship with Pernice, but reports have since claimed that her time on the show left her with “PTSD”.
So far, the actress has not made public comments on the alleged feud or the video tape request.
Speaking about the incident, a BBC spokesperson shared: “The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows. Strictly Come Dancing has always taken duty of care incredibly seriously and there is a constant dialogue between senior members of the production team and the contestants to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly.
“Strictly has a proud track record as a joyful, positive experience where robust support and assistance is always made available at every stage of the production.”
Related: Strictly winner Ellie Leach reveals embarrassing moment from training
Pernice hasn’t commented publicly on the matter either, but seemingly addressed speculation of a feud in an Instagram post in which he promoted his live tour.
“One week today we open Let Me Entertain You. We’re working hard but [it] is going to be epic,” he wrote earlier this month. “I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has sent messages of support – I really truly appreciate it – thank you thank you thank you.”
Strictly Come Dancingwill return later this year on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Tickets for Strictly‘s 2024 live arena tour are available now.
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Reporter, Digital Spy
Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy.
Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).