Strictly dancer rages at show fans after facing backlash for calling axed Graziano a ‘top bloke’ amid misconduct scandal
A STRICTLY dancer has hit out at criticism from show fans for posting a supportive comment about axed Graziano Di Prima.
The sacked Italian professional, 30, posted a statement on Instagram in which he spoke of his “deep regret” following incidents in the rehearsal room with his celebrity dance partner Zara McDermott last year.
It has since been revealed BBC bosses were shown upsetting video footage in which Graziano spat at and kicked Zara during gruelling sessions.
As a result, they have bolstered their welfare policy for both professional dancers and celebs, and chaperones will be present in every session going forwards.
Professional dancer and influencer Austyn Farrell has danced on Strictly as part of the ensemble, perhaps most memorably in a Beyoncé routine with Johannes Radebe last year.
He commented on Graziano’s statement: “You my man! One of the top blokes I’ve danced with on that Strictly stage! Your passion and talent will forever inspire me! ‘Only girl in the world’ with Kim [Marsh], I will never forget how much love you had in rehearsals and on stage.”
When a fan of the show suggested he read Zara’s statement in which she said she had been scared to speak out sooner, he responded: “I’ll reply to you but this goes for the other minions under the comment.
“I don’t know what’s gone on I don’t need to, my comment is not to you, don’t be coming on here trying me with ya s**t.”
Zara, 27, waited a number of days before addressing the scandal.
Posting on social media, she said: “I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports.
“Strictly is one of the most magical shows on TV and one that I dreamt of being on since I was a little girl.
“I have wrestled with the fear of opening up – I was scared about public backlash, I was scared about my future, I was scared of victim shaming.
“But after a lot of conversations with those I love, I’ve gained the strength to face these fears, and when I was asked to speak to the BBC, I spoke candidly about my time on the show.”
She insisted that the Strictly production team and everyone behind the scenes were “amazing to work with”.
However she added that her “experience inside the training room was very different” and said: “There were witnesses to some events as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch.”
Zara signed off: “I would like to thank the BBC & BBC Studios for their swift action and incredibly high level of support, as well as everyone who has reached out to me – it really truly means a lot. Love, always. Zara.”
The allegations against Graziano came to light during the inquiry into claims that Strictly pro-Giovanni Pernice, 33, bullied his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington, 50, on the last series – which he has strenuously denied.
Graziano, who joined the show in 2018 and attended the same “brutal” dance school as Giovanni in Italy.
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.”