Susanna Reid is ‘sure Amanda Abbington has good reason’ to ask for Strictly rehearsal tapes amid Giovanni Pernice row
GOOD Morning Britain anchor Susanna Reid has told how she is “sure” Amanda Abbington has “good reason” to ask for rehearsal tapes following her feud with Giovanni Pernice.
Susanna, 53, starred on the BBC series back in 2013 and finished as a runner-up with show partner Kevin Clifton, 41.
On Wednesday’s Good Morning Britain, she opened up to entertainment reporter Richard Arnold, 54, as they discussed The Sun’s exclusive story revealing Amanda, 51, has demanded backstage footage of her time on the show.
It came after Sherlock actress Amanda told pals she suffered post-traumatic stress disorder on the programme.
She quit last year’s Strictly for “personal reasons” after the pair’s experience was blighted by a series of rows.
Now Susanna, who impressed with routines including the Jive, Paso Doble ands Cha Cha during her time on the series, has spoken out.
She told her Good Morning Britain co-stars: “It’s a shame for anyone who didn’t have a good experience, because, at it’s best, it is a sparkling wonderland.
“Obviously some contestants don’t have that experience.
“I am, sure Amanda has reason to ask for that footage it seems.”
Her co-presenter Richard Madeley agreed and added that Amanda wouldn’t ask for the footage if there wasn’t anything wrong.
Meanwhile, the BBC has pledged to stand by the Italian dancer.
The Sun this week reported how 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.
“Giovanni is a perfectionist and he can be incredibly full-on.”
A pal claimed it has taken months for Mr Selfridge actress 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.”
A source said Amanda met producers to tell them she was finding the rehearsal process difficult.
Last weekend, the Sun on Sunday revealed how Strictly bosses did not invite Amanda back to perform in the show’s finale — unlike actor Nigel Harman, who also pulled out for medical reasons.