STRICTLY Come Dancing fans have called for the return of a legendary star after Graziano Di Prima’s unceremonious axing.
The Sun revealed this weekend that Graziano, who has been a fan favourite on the show, was dropped from this year’s line-up after alleged ‘physical incidents’ with celeb partner Zara McDermott came to light.
Graziano posted an apology online, saying he “deeply regrets” his behaviour, announcing he would step back from this year’s series, with fans now wondering who will replace him.
For some, they set their sights on former Strictly pro James Jordan, who competed on the show from 2006 to 2013.
Although he never won the series, he landed in the finals twice alongside Dr Pamela Stephenson and Denise Van Outen.
But unfortunately for some, James was quick to shut down the speculation, simply writing on X (formerly Twitter): “No. too old – and I love watching the young ones take the show to a new level.”
Since leaving the series, James – who is married to Ola Jordan, another former Strictly star – has still given his commentary on each year’s performances on Twitter.
He is now the proud dad to three-year-old daughter, Ella.
In 2019, Jordan put his dancing skills to the test in a new way by participating and winning ITV’s Dancing On Ice, teaming up with with professional Finnish figure skater Alexandra Schauman.
The BBC confirmed over the weekend that Graziano will not be part of this year’s series, which marks the show’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
Insiders told us his departure followed an internal investigation into physical incidents involving Zara, who was partnered with him on last year’s series.
Despite the pair getting on well for the cameras, with Graziano even declaring her a “perfect” student, it has been alleged that he hit, kicked, and spat at Zara during rehearsals.
It is reported that, after video footage of the incidents were uncovered, the BBC took swift action, removing him from the show and offering support to Zara within four days.
In a statement shared to his Instagram after the news broke, 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.”
“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,” he added.
“I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.”
Zara, who at the time did not file any complaints, has instructed lawyers to act on her behalf over the incidents.
Graziano’s departure comes shortly after Giovanni Pernice‘s exit from the show, following multiple official complaints against him.
It’s believed at least three people complained about Giovanni’s “militant” training style in the rehearsal room, with the efforts spearheaded by Amanda Abbington, who was partnered with the Sicilian dancer last year.
Giovanni has denied any wrongdoing and has since vowed to clear his name as the investigation, led by two former Met Police officer, continues.
In light of Gio’s exit, Aljaz Škorjanec, who was on the show from 2013 to 2021, has been announced to be returning to the dancefloor.
His wife, Janette Manrara, was also a former pro and now hosts Strictly spin-off, It Takes Two.
