English actress Amanda Abbington has called Giovanni Pernice "nasty" over his alleged "abusive behaviour" on Strictly Come Dancing.

This comes after the BBC launched an internal investigation after receiving complaints about the professional from previous dance partners on the show.

Last week, it was reported that Giovanni's team had insisted that they were the ones who had requested behind-the-scenes footage over concerns about Amanda's behaviour.

Amanda Abbington hits out at Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice

However, Amanda Abbington was quick to refute these claims from the Strictly Come Dancing star, saying: "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."

She then went on to describe how her life has been badly affected by the recent Giovanni Pernice controversy, adding: "You don’t understand how awful this all is."

She said: "Giovanni’s fans have started trolling me now. I have had to come off social media and I’m getting death threats.

"All of this because I didn’t enjoy a television programme. I didn’t enjoy it because of all of this."

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The BBC recently released a statement regarding the issue, telling the public: "It is a longstanding position that the BBC does not comment on specific matters related to individuals. Nor ordinarily, would we comment on whether we are reviewing any individual complaints.

"Recently, we have seen a number of media reports about a high profile show. We would urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has a right to confidentiality and fair process.

"If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take any necessary steps to establish the facts, whether there is a case to answer, and, if appropriate, what action should be taken. This is all within the context of the BBC having duties of care to everyone linked to a complaint - that applies to those that have raised the complaint and to those that have been complained about.

"Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for many of those who have taken part, we will always look at any issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to everyone concerned. We will not be commenting further."