Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima has confirmed he is leaving the show amid reports of alleged misconduct.
The Italian dancer, 30, said in a statement that he “deeply regrets” the events that led to his exit.
It comes after reports Di Prima had been let go from the BBC One primetime show following allegations of gross misconduct towards one of his former dance partners.
He wrote in a statement posted 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.”
Di Prima joined Strictly in 2018 and his celebrity partners have included radio DJ Vick Hope, Loose Women panellist Judi Love, TV presenter Kym Marsh and Love Island star Zara McDermott.
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A BBC spokesperson said: “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 robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.”
It comes after the broadcaster confirmed Giovanni Pernice would not be part of the line-up of professionals amid allegations about his teaching methods.
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The Italian dancer, 33, has previously dismissed the allegations he displayed “abusive or threatening behaviour” as “simply false” and said he is “co-operating fully” with an ongoing BBC investigation.
Strictly is set to mark its 20th year in the upcoming series, with professionals including 2023 winner Vito Coppola and Amy Dowden, who had missed last year’s series after she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer.
Aljaz Skorjanec, who won in his debut year in 2013 with model Abbey Clancy, is also set to return to the show following a two-year break.
Source : Sky News
