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RICHARD Madeley took a subtle swipe at Giovanni Pernice today as he joined Susanna Reid in defence of Amanda Abbington.

The Sun revealed at the weekend that actress Amanda, 51, has demanded bosses at Strictly hand over footage from her rehearsals with Giovanni, 33, last year and is seeking legal advice over her experience.

Richard took a swipe at Giovanni after actress Amanda's claims
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Richard took a swipe at Giovanni after actress Amanda's claims
For use in UK, Ireland or Benelux countries only Undated BBC handout photo of Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington. The actress has left the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing competition, Fleur East announced on behalf of a Strictly spokesperson on the BBC Two spin off show It Takes Two. Issue date: Monday October 23, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story SHOWBIZ Strictly. Photo credit should read: Ray Burniston/BBC/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: Not for use more than 21 days after issue. You may use this picture without charge only for the purpose of publicising or reporting on current BBC programming, personnel or other BBC output or activity within 21 days of issue. Any use after that time MUST be cleared through BBC Picture Publicity. Please credit the image to the BBC and any named photographer or independent programme maker, as described in the caption.
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Amanda is seeking legal advice over her experience while taking part in StrictlyCredit: BBC
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Giovanni Pernice attends the Virgin Media British Academy Television Awards at The Royal Festival Hall on May 08, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
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The BBC has pledged to stand by Gio through the claimsCredit: WireImage

During Wednesday's edition of Good Morning Britain Susanna, 53 - who took part in the BBC One competition 2013 - made it clear she is siding with Amanda.

And Richard, 67, echoed her comments. He said: "She wouldn't ask for the footage if she didn't think there was something on it that would justify her complaints.

"Why ask for it? She knows what happened."

It's thought Amanda believes the hours of their practice tapes could support her claims about the pro dancer’s alleged behaviour towards her.

More on Giovanni Pernice

The Sherlock star quit the show in October citing medical reasons — and a source has revealed she has since been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

It comes after her time with Giovanni, who is regarded as a “perfectionist”, was blighted by a series of rows.

An on-set source said: “The BBC have received a request for the footage they hold of Amanda and Giovanni. It is known as a data subject access request. There is a feeling that the recordings will lift the lid on what really goes on behind the scenes on Strictly. Things in rehearsals can become very tense."

A pal claimed it has taken months for Amanda to recover from her time on the dance show.

They said: “Amanda has been left broken and saddened by the whole experience. She has needed therapy and was left in shock by the behaviour she was exposed to."

Meanwhile, the BBC has pledged to stand by the Italian dancer.

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