Amanda Abbington is reportedly set to return to television in the detective thriller "Down Cemetery Road." The actress, 52, has been on a hiatus from screens since her departure from "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2023.
Abbington is slated to appear in the second series of the Apple TV+ show, which is based on the work of "Slow Horses" writer Mick Herron. She will join a cast that includes Emma Thompson, reprising her role as private investigator Zoë Boehm, and Ruth Wilson as Sarah Trafford. The synopsis for the second season describes Boehm and Trafford investigating a case involving a woman's death near a train, which leads them into the world of black market antiquities and a serial killer.
Abbington's role in the new series marks a significant return after her "Strictly" exit. She left the competition midway through the 2023 season and subsequently accused professional dancer Giovanni Pernice of "unnecessary, cruel and mean behaviour." Pernice denied the claims, and a BBC investigation in September did not uphold allegations of physical aggression or threatening behavior. However, the corporation issued an apology regarding complaints of verbal bullying and harassment.
Pernice stated he was "pleased the report has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour." Following her accusations, Abbington reported facing a significant number of public backlash, including daily death threats.
In the period after the controversy, Abbington took on a less public role in the play "(This Is Not A) Happy Room," performed to a smaller audience. At the time, she expressed a desire to continue acting and potentially move into directing, while acknowledging uncertainty about public perception.
Abbington's most recent prominent dramatic role was in the 2023 thriller "Desperate Measures." Representatives for Abbington have been contacted for comment.