Strictly’s Graziano dropped huge hint about backstage chaos just days before he was sacked from show
STRICTLY’S Graziano Di Prima dropped a HUGE hint about backstage chaos before he was dropped from the show.
The Italian dancer was dumped from the line-up after allegations of misconduct towards Zara McDermott came to light.
Before the revelations, Graziano was announced as one of the professional dancers for the upcoming series.
Speaking to OK!, the dancer explained that it can be difficult to spend time away from his wife Giada Lini due to the intense nature of training.
He said: “It’s mixed feelings because it’s the most wonderful time and I’m doing what I love the most. I am so lucky; Strictly changed my life. But at the same time, I am apart from my wife.
“It’s one of the toughest times. Strictly takes every minute of your life.”
The pro dancer also emphasised that he and his wife “have principles” when training begins, dismissing any speculation about a Strictly curse.
He said: “We do the same job, we are professional dancers. We respect each other and have principles, and we try to share everything we are going through in the season with each other. Giada is my best friend, she knows everything.
“When you don’t want to do things in the wrong way, you never even think of it.”
On Saturday July 13, Graziano confirmed in a statement that he had left the BBC series, stating that he “deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly.”
The Italian dancer was sacked from Strictly due to an alleged altercation with his dance partner Zara.
According to sources, the incident involved him allegedly hitting, kicking, and spitting at Zara during heated BBC rehearsals.
Following the complaint, the BBC took swift action and decided to remove him from the show.
It is the latest blow suffered by the BBC show, as allegations against fellow Strictly star Giovanni Pernice are still being investigated.
Giovanni was accused of bullying actress Amanda Abbington in the last series.
He has strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.