GRAZIANO Di Prima’s departure from Strictly Come Dancing has sparked controversy following allegations of an altercation with his dance partner, ex-Love Island star Zara McDermott.
Here is everything you need to know about the incident and why he has been sacked.
Graziano Di Prima was sacked from Strictly Come Dancing due to an alleged altercation with his dance partner, ex-Love Island Star Zara McDermott.
According to sources, the incident involved him allegedly hitting, kicking, and spitting at Zara during rehearsals.
Following the complaint, the BBC took swift action and decided to remove him from the show.
He will not appear in the next series.
BBC said in a statement: “We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
“While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.”
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.
Graziano Di Prima
Graziano acknowledged that his intense passion and determination to win might have impacted his training regime negatively, expressing deep regret over the events that led to his dismissal.
He said in a statement shared on Instagram: “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 Di Prima joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2018.
His tenure on the show lasted until his recent departure in 2024, making it a total of six years on the show.
During his time on the show, his best performance was reaching the quarter-final with actress Kym Marsh in 2022.
Graziano partnered with several celebrities, including radio DJ and TV presenter Vick Hope and comedian Judi Love.
He also danced with singer Anne-Marie for the 2021 Christmas special and won.
Graziano participated in the 2023 Christmas special with news presenter Sally Nugent, finishing as a runner-up.
Graziano Di Prima is an Italian professional dancer and choreographer, known for his appearances on the British television show Strictly Come Dancing.
Born on May 7, 1994, in Sicily, Italy, Graziano has built a notable career in dance, specialising in Latin and Ballroom styles.
Graziano joined the cast of the popular BBC dance competition show in 2018.
He has participated as a professional dancer, partnering with various celebrity contestants over the seasons.
In addition to his appearances on Strictly Come Dancing, Graziano toured with Burn the Floor in the UK in 2021.
He was part of the Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals Live Tour in 2022, performing alongside other professional dancers from the show.
Graziano began dancing at a young age and competed in numerous competitions in Italy and internationally.
He is also involved in choreography and has contributed to dance productions both on television and stage.
In 2022, Graziano married fellow dancer Giada Lini.
They have been together since 2015
After a two-year delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Graziano and Giada finally tied the knot in Sicily in July 2022.
The wedding ceremony, a 90-minute Catholic service, took place at the historic Basilica della Madonna della Catena in the charming village of Castiglione di Sicilia on the Mediterranean island.
The intimate event was attended by a select group of 200 guests, including Graziano’s fellow Strictly stars Nadiya Bychkova, Karim Zeroual, and Chizzy Akudolu.
The couple often shares their dance journey and personal moments on social media, showcasing their shared passion for dance.
