Strictly’s Graziano Di Prima told Zara McDermott to ‘trust him’ before physical abuse allegations
STRICTLY Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima urged former show partner Zara McDermott to “trust him” as they discussed their intense rehearsals in an unearthed clip.
The video, which played out on Thursday’s Good Morning Britain, showed the ITV programme’s entertainment reporter Richard Arnold, 54, chatting to the 2023 duo ahead of their first live BBC show.
It came to light in the same week Graziano, 30, was fired by the BBC following claims he hit, spat at and kicked former celebrity partner Zara, 27, during rehearsals.
The Italian, who started his Strictly journey in 2018, was accused of “physical incidents” towards the Love Island alumni.
The ITV video clip played out in GMB’s entertainment segment today as the panel discussed the shocking claims which have since sparked a lengthy statement from Zara.
Presenter Richard told of what he believed to be their “sizzling” chemistry when he interviewed them before their first live performance on Strictly.
The historic clip then showed Zara vowing to put “110 per cent” into her training and she added: “The more rehearsal time the better – this is a competition at the end of the day.”
Graziano added: “For us, it’s the opportunity to do our best.
“To let her [Zara] shine so we can shine as well.”
Towards the end of the segment, Zara could be seen telling Richard: “I think I’m in safe hands.”
Graziano then replied: “You are.
“Trust me, you are.”
It comes after Graziano previously admitted to his tough training regime.
At the time, he opened up on the dynamic on Zara’s boyfriend Sam Thompson’s Hits Radio UK show and said: “We are forced to spend all day together.
“You need to understand that I’m just teaching you.
Graziano Di Prima - Strictly statement in FULL
GRAZIANO Di Prima has addressed his Strictly Come Dancing sacking with a statement on social media - see the details below.
In a statement shared to his Instagram page Graziano wrote: “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.”
He continued: “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.”
He concluded the post: “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.”
“Everything I’m saying is not personal, it’s about how you move.
“I’m not telling you that you’re rubbish in life!”
Previously, images showing Zara lying exhausted and “passed out” on the floor have again come to light.
Graziano, who has also danced with Vick Hope previously as well as Judi Love and Kym Marsh, was previously told of his “sour” training approach by Zara.
At the time, she said: “What do we call you? Sweet and Sour.
“Yes Sweet and Sour. He is very, very very sweet and then sometimes…..to be fair when you have told me something 52,000 times and I still get it wrong, you look at me like…and I still get it wrong.”
Following the scandal he has now re-located overseas to start a new life.
He is earning £6 an hour picking grapes at a farm in Sicily.
He also released a statement in full – yet his initial message appeared to disappear.
Graziano was fired after the claims against him emerged in the inquiry into fellow show professional Giovanni Pernice’s behaviour towards former star Amanda Abbington.
Giovanni also quit the show earlier this year and is under investigation by the BBC over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners.
BBC documentary maker Zara is now looking to the future following the dancer’s sacking, and revealed her new career chapter.