BBC bosses have delayed releasing the findings of a probe into former Strictly professional dancer Giovanni Pernice after new evidence came to light.
The Sun on Sunday can reveal the results of the three-month investigation into bullying claims by actress Amanda Abbington and other stars are unlikely to be announced this month.
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The Sherlock actress, 50, is said to have handed over more texts at the last minute which has “changed the course of the probe”.
The furore surrounding Jermaine Jenas, who was sacked from the One Show and Match Of The Day amid inappropriate texts, may also have added to the delay.
The source added: “The BBC is in crisis mode.
“They were still reeling from the Huw Edwards scandal.
“They know all eyes are on them as to what they will do about the black cloud hanging over Strictly so they need to make sure they announce their decision at the right moment.
“It’s looking more likely that it will be next month now, meaning the whole thing could drag into the new series.
“The BBC also knows that whatever they announce is very unlikely to be the end of the matter.
“They are bracing themselves for appeals and potentially more complaints so are determined to get their ducks in a row before they make any public announcement.
“Amanda and Giovanni are naturally both frustrated at the way things are dragging on.
“They both insist they are in the right and are not backing down.
“But they both also want answers and to find out what the BBC has decided.”
It is believed six people were spoken to during the probe, including Laura Whitmore, Giovanni’s dance partner in 2016.