WRONG MOVE
Strictly’s Graziano admits he DID kick Zara McDermott in rehearsals as he reacts to show scandal
The shamed star has fled to Sicily after being sacked by the BBC
AXED Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima has admitted "making a mistake" by kicking Zara McDermott in a rehearsal last year.
The shamed star, 30, has fled to Sicily after being sacked by the BBC following an investigation into the scandal.
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His representative, Mark Borkowski, told PA: "There is never a time when kicking, or any sense of that is right, and he knows that.
"He knows he's made a mistake. He apologised at the time."
The dancer has told pals he is “mentally shot” after video emerged of him kicking and spitting on his former celebrity partner.
A source said: “Graziano has lost everything.
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“He is in pieces and filled with remorse. He knows, quite rightly, there is no way back for him in showbiz in the UK. His Strictly dancing career is over.
“He’s fled back home and is living on a farm, earning a pittance, and throwing himself into manual labour.
"He says he is literally living next to some cows- it’s an astonishing fall from grace.”
Graziano is earning £6-an-hour in his new job, a far-cry from the glitz and glamour of the ballroom.
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The Sun told how the BBC had been warned twice about Graziano’s conduct towards Zara during their training sessions last year.
Zara is understood to have been "too scared" to speak out.
THIRD pro dancer identified in Strictly probe as growing scandal leaves show in meltdown
In a statement released after Graziano's sacking, Zara said: "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.
"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."
Zara added: "The culture within our society makes it difficult for people to speak up, especially in a world 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 & BBC Studios for their swift action and incredibly high level of support, as well as everyone who has reached out to me - it really truly means a lot. Love, always. Zara."
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Today the BBC confirmed the future of the show, revealing it will return to screens in September with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosting.
Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse are also returning to judge 15 new celebrities in the ballroom.
In addition, bosses have invited Strictly fans to apply to watch the professionals performing their pre-recorded dance numbers for the 2024 series.
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A statement said: "Strictly Come Dancing will be bringing the sparkle back to Saturday nights on BBC One later this year.
"And in advance of this year's live shows we have an exciting opportunity to experience a taste of the magical studio experience by applying for tickets to watch our Strictly pros in action!"
Graziano Di Prima - Strictly statement in FULL
GRAZIANO Di Prima has addressed his Strictly Come Dancing sacking with a statement on social media - see the details below.
In a statement shared to his Instagram page Graziano 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.
"Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it's best for the show that I step away."
He continued: "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."
He concluded the post: "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."