“I deeply regret the events that led to my departure”

Former Strictly Come Dancing pro Graziano Di Prima has spoken out for the first time since it was confirmed he would not be returning to this year’s series.

The professional line-up for the upcoming 20th season of Strictly was confirmed last month, with Graziano initially announced as returning for his seventh year with the show.

However, over the weekend the BBC revealed that this would not be the case.

The long-running BBC dance show has been under investigation for two months after complaints were made by three former professionals Jean PerniceFamous dance partners of (including actor Amanda Abbington) about his behavior behind the scenes of the show.

Giovanni – who will not return to Strictly in 2024 – has denied the allegations that have been made about him and vowed to “clear his name” as part of the investigation.

Last week, the Daily Mail reported that the investigation would be expanded to look into more individuals linked to the show.

On Saturday, the BBC said in a statement: “We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.

“While we never comment on individual cases, it is well known that the BBC has robust due diligence procedures in place, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly if necessary.”

Graziano later spoke publicly in a statement on his own Instagram page, which read: “I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win may have affected my training schedule. In accordance with the BBC’s HR process, I understand that it is best for the show that I step away.

“While some aspects of this story involve outside 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 every success for the future. I would also like to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally.”

Graziano added: “When the time is right, I will share my story.”

The Italian artist’s former Strictly partners include TV personality Kym Marshactor Judi LoveStreamer Vick’s Hope and Love-Islander turned documentarian Zara McDermott.

In June, Giovanni told his fans on Instagram:”I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest allegations are simply false. I am cooperating fully with the BBC’s ongoing investigation, which will determine the truth.

“As requested, I have remained silent, but I look forward to the conclusion of the investigation and, ultimately, the clearing of my name and the establishment of the truth.

“I am so happy to be back on tour. Thank you all for your continued support – your messages and love mean the world to me. I hope to see many of you again very soon and I look forward to clearing my name.”

A BBC spokesperson also said: In May, the BBC issued a rare statement saying: “The BBC’s long-standing position is not to comment on specific matters relating to individuals. Nor would we normally comment if we were investigating individual complaints.

“We have recently seen several media reports about a high-profile show. We urge people not to indulge in speculation. Anyone involved in a complaint has the right to confidentiality and a fair trial.

“If a complaint is made to the BBC, we assess and take all necessary steps to establish the facts, determine whether a complaint should be responded to and, if so, what action should be taken.”

“This is all within the context of the BBC’s duty of care to all those connected with a complaint – this applies to those who made the complaint and those who were the subject of a complaint,” the statement added.

“While we know that our shows have been positive experiences for many who have attended, we will always review the issues raised with care, fairness and sensitivity to all concerned.”

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