Zara McDermott admitted she wanted another Strictly partner in unearthed interview – leaving Graziano fuming
Strictly Come Dancing star Zara McDermott admitted she wanted to be partnered with another dance professional instead of Graziano Di Prima during her time on the show.
In an unearthed interview Love Island star Zara is asked: “If you had to dance with another dancer/contestant for a week, who would you pick?”
Whilst Graziano initially stays loyal to Zara, the reality TV star reveals she knows who she would like to partner with.
She instantly says: “I know who I would pick.”
Thing get a bit awkward when Graziano then goes to storm off, with Zara left saying: “It’s a game!”
As Graziano retorts: “Yeah but your mind went there.”
She goes on to say she would have liked to dance with Kai Widdrington.
The video has been resurfaced a week after the news news that Graziano was sacked for gross misconduct amid claims he hit, spat and kicked dance partner Zara.
The BBC confirmed the Italian will not appear in the next series, despite previously naming him as part of the upcoming season.
The shock allegations emerged during the inquiry into claims that another Italian star, Giovanni Pernice, 33, bullied actress Amanda Abbington, 50, on the last series. Giovanni has strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
The BBC had widened that investigation to look into the treatment of other dancers, which led to the examination of rehearsal footage between Graziano and Zara.
Following the news that he will not be part of the Strictly line up this year, Graziano shared a statement to Instagram.
The statement on Instagram read: “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.”
Graziano joined Strictly in 2018, and has previously been partnered with actress Kym Marsh, DJ Vick Hope and Loose Women star Judi Love.
