Everything Graziano Di Prima and Zara McDermott have said about Strictly axe

BBC Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show after allegations made against him regarding his celebrity partner Zara McDermott. 

Reports claimed members of the production team had reported Graziano after seeing footage which "reduced those who had seen it to tears", a source told The Sun.

Shortly after the news emerged of his departure, Graziano issued a statement to confirm he would be leaving the popular dancing show.

He 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."

Graziano added: "Respect 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."

It was confirmed that Zara wasn't the one to report Graziano, but she was later asked to come and speak to BBC bosses.

The former Love Island star explained that she wasn't originally planning to speak out, but she has since decided to issue a statement. 

Zara wrote: "I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports.

"Strictly is one of the most magical shows on TV and one that I dreamt of being on since I was a little girl.

"When I was invited to be a contestant on the show it really was a childhood dream come true. I fully understood the level of commitment an dhard work that Strictly was going to be and I dedicated everything to it. I am a resilient person and I was fully prepared to put in whatever it took."

She added: "And so much of my Strictly experience was everything I could have dreamt of. The entire production team and everyone behind the scenes as well as my fellow contestants were so amazing to worth with.

"However, my experience inside the training room was very different. Reports have been made about my treatment on the show and there were witnesses to some events, as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredible distressing to watch.

"I have wrestled with the fear of opening up - I was scared about public backlash, I was scared about my future, I was scared of victim shaming.

"But after a lot of conversations with those I love, I've gained the strength to face these fears, and when I was asked to speak to the BBC, I spoke candidly about my time on the show.

"The culture within our society makes it difficult for people to speak up especially in a aworld where social media opinions and voices are so loud. This is something I've seen through working with countless women on my documentaries.

"I would like to thank the BBC and BBC Studios for their swift action and incredibly high level of support, as wel as everyone who has reached out to me - it really truly means a lot. Love, always. Zara."

The pair performed on Strictly together in 2023 and ultimately left in week six.