Strictly bosses were warned TWICE about Graziano Di Prima ‘abuse’ before dancer was sacked for ‘kicking’ Zara McDermott
STRICTLY bosses received two complaints last year about Graziano Di Prima’s abusive training style towards Zara McDermott — but only issued warnings.
Pro Graziano’s sacking was revealed at the weekend with the BBC insisting it acted swiftly after seeing video footage of abuse.
Yet insiders say no serious action was taken over the complaints raised last autumn.
Graziano, 30, was fired after allegations against him emerged in the inquiry into fellow Italian pro Giovanni Pernice’s behaviour towards Amanda Abbington on the same series.
That probe began in May and Giovanni denies wrongdoing.
A source said: “This is a complete mess, and an unmitigated, utterly unprecedented disaster for the BBC.
“Graziano has held up his hands and admits his behaviour was extreme and unacceptable.
“He knows there is no return and quite rightly. Yet why was no action taken sooner to nip this situation in the bud?
“Graziano feels if he had received proper support and some sort of anger management training, an escalation could have been prevented.
“For the Beeb’s part, Graziano was not the only dancer being spoken to and they had absolutely no idea about the alleged kicking — which it is claimed happened twice — and as soon as they were alerted, they took decisive action and fired him.
“Graziano is in bits. He is being monitored 24/7 by his wife Giada and mum who has moved in to take care of him.
“This whole Strictly fiasco is getting increasingly toxic, and the BBC finds itself trying to complete an investigation while overseeing duty of care to all.”
The Sun on Sunday revealed Graziano had been sacked for gross misconduct.
Ten days ago bosses were shown shocking video of clashes with ex-Love Islander Zara, 27.
Graziano could have been axed within 24 hours but bosses needed to speak to Zara.
They held talks just before a weekend — and HR rules meant Graziano also had to be spoken to in person. So it took just four days to sack him in all.
An BBC insider said: “There was no procrastinating. The video evidence was completely and utterly undeniable. It only showed one incident, but it quickly became apparent from talking to Zara that verbal and physical abuse allegedly took place multiple times. She was incredibly brave.”
Last week it was announced ex-pro Aljaz Scorjanek is returning — which sparked speculation it was for Graziano. But Aljaz was rehired to replace Giovanni, as they are the same height.
Graziano’s replacement will be a new star not a show veteran. The BBC did not comment.
GRAZIANO’S STATEMENT
I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly.
My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.
Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it’s best for the show that I step away.
While there are aspects of this story involving external influences that I can’t discuss at this time, I remain committed to being strong for my family and friends.
I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.
I also want to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally.
When the time is right, I will share my story.