The BBC has confirmed one of the most popular dancing stars of its entertainment juggernaut show Strictly Come Dancing will be leaving the lineup, following allegations of “gross misconduct” against one of his female celebrity partners.
Graziano Di Prima announced yesterday on Instagram that he would be leaving the show, where he has been one of the professional dancers since 2018.
He said:
“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(Human Resources) process, I understand that 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 to 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.”
The UK’s The Sun newspaper reports today that the BBC made the decision to terminate the dancer’s contract after being shown video that allegedly showed the Italian professional kicking dance partner Zoe McDermott. The Sun reports claims that other physical assaults occurred.
While the BBC did not refer directly to the dancer’s departure, the broadcaster was quoted on its own News website:
“While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established a robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.”
Di Prima’s exit in such circumstances has landed another blow on the BBC’s most popular entertainment show, this year celebrating its 20th anniversary, still one of the UK’s most popular TV exports with versions of Dancing With the Stars showing in countries across the world.
Another popular dancer Giovanni Pernice has announced he is to leave the show, following allegations by a celebrity partner, actress Amanda Abbington, that she suffered PTSD after training with him. Pernice denies all reports of inappropriate behaviour, and the BBC’s investigation is continuing.