Strictly's Graziano Di Prima declares he's 'not a monster' weeks after show axe
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima has spoken on allegations that have been made about his treatment of a past participant on the show.
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima has addressed the claims made about him over the past few weeks.
The dancer has denied being an abusive person and plans to return to dancing despite facing allegations regarding his conduct with a previous show participant.
Di Prima, who was axed from Strictly last month amid claims about his behaviour towards his 2023 celebrity dance partner, ex-Love Island contestant Zara McDermott, has recently spoken out to clear his name.
In his defence, he told Daily Mail: "I didn't deliberately hurt anyone," expressing confusion over the origin of McDermott's accusations.
"I'm not a monster. I'm not an abusive man," he declared firmly. He admitted he recalled kicking the floor in frustration due to the "pressure of the show".
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He explained he didn't mean to kick her, adding "I'd never, never do that," but said his foot brushed her after he kicked the floor and said he immediately apologised and gave her a hug.
Graziano said there was "no problem" and the pair continued. He also stated he will dance again, adding he won't let the claims define him.
This statement follows reports by The Mirror that Graziano had been receiving medical attention and was under hourly observation following his exit from the show.
His family said his mental state had left him unable to defend himself, prior to Graziano officially talking about the incident.
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Zara issued a statement shortly after the claims came to light, writing on Instagram: "The entire production team and everyone behind the scenes as well as my fellow contestants were so amazing to work 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 incredibly distressing to watch."
She explained she had been asked by the BBC to go in to share details of her experience on the show.
