Mystery as Strictly’s Graziano deletes original statement after being sacked from BBC show
SACKED Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima appears to have mysteriously deleted his original statement following his dismissal.
The professional dancer, 30, has allegedly replaced it with an updated version featuring subtle amendments.
The current version, which was shared to Instagram, reads: “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.”
Both the ‘original’ and current statements have been shared on a Strictly fan forum.
They start the same but begin to differ in the third sentence.
Graziano originally wrote: “While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it’s only right for the sake of the show that I step away.”
He continued: “I am saddened that I wasn’t allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.
“There’s more to this story than I am able to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends.”
We revealed last night that BBC bosses received two complaints last year about Graziano’s abusive training style towards Zara McDermott — but only issued warnings.
Insiders say no serious action was taken despite allegations he hit, kicked and spat at Zara.
Graziano was fired after the claims against him emerged in the inquiry into fellow Italian pro Giovanni Pernice’s behaviour towards Amanda Abbington on the same series.
That probe began in May and Giovanni denies wrongdoing.
A source said last night: “This is a complete mess, and an unmitigated, utterly unprecedented disaster for the BBC.
“Graziano has held up his hands and admits his behaviour was extreme and unacceptable.
“He knows there is no return and quite rightly. Yet why was no action taken sooner to nip this situation in the bud?
“Graziano feels if he had received proper support and some sort of anger management training, an escalation could have been prevented.
“For the Beeb’s part, Graziano was not the only dancer being spoken to and they had absolutely no idea about the alleged kicking — which it is claimed happened twice — and as soon as they were alerted, they took decisive action and fired him.
“Graziano is in bits. He is being monitored 24/7 by his wife Giada and mum who has moved in to take care of him.
“This whole Strictly fiasco is getting increasingly toxic, and the BBC finds itself trying to complete an investigation while overseeing duty of care to all.”
The Sun on Sunday revealed Graziano had been sacked for gross misconduct.
We can also reveal it took just four days to axe him.
On Thursday, July 4, bosses were shown shocking video of clashes with ex-Love Islander Zara, 27.
They then held talks with Zara, but it was just before a weekend — and HR rules meant Graziano also had to be spoken to in person. He was then sacked on Monday, July 8.
An BBC insider said: “There was no procrastinating. The video evidence was completely and utterly undeniable. It only showed one incident, but it quickly became apparent from talking to Zara that verbal and physical abuse allegedly took place multiple times. She was incredibly brave.”
Last week it was announced ex-pro Aljaz Skorjanek is returning — which sparked speculation it was for Graziano. But Aljaz was rehired to replace Giovanni, as they are the same height.
Graziano’s replacement will be new, not a show veteran.
The BBC did not comment.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.