Film 'at risk of cancellation' after Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice sex abuse scandals

STRICTLY Come Dancing is ‘at risk of being cancelled’ following the Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice scandals, it has been reported.

Strictly was thrown into further chaos this weekend when professional dancer Graziano, 30, was axed from the show following allegations of an altercation between him and his former partner Zara McDermott.

It has been reported that Strictly could be cancelled following the new scandal involving GrazianoCredits: WireImage

He is accused of being involved in a physical altercation with ZaraCredits: Splash

Giovanni is also under investigation by the BBC following allegations of misconductCredits: WireImage

He was accused of punching, kicking and spitting at the former Love Island star, 27, while they were teaming up for the competition last year.

The allegations follow the ongoing scandal involving Giovanni, 33, who is being investigated by the BBC following allegations of misconduct made by Amanda Abbington.

It is now being claimed that this could be “the beginning of the end” for Strictly.

A source said: “There is absolutely no doubt that those at the highest levels at Strictly, and more widely at the BBC, were aware of Graziano’s behaviour but allowed it to appear on screen.”

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Speaking to the Daily Mail, the TV source continued: “How can you just let them get away with it when they’ve done something like this?

“Maybe it’s because he was adored by some bosses, who knows, but whatever the reason why it wasn’t handled properly, it can’t be ignored. It’s surely the beginning of the end for Strictly now. It’s a terrible, terrible crisis.”

Shortly after news broke that Graziano would not be returning to Strictly, he released a statement on social media.

He said: “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 down.

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“While there are aspects of this story involving outside influences that I cannot 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 in the future.”

But a mystery arose when Graziano’s original statement was deleted and replaced with a slightly edited version.

Giovanni Pernice Strictly Scandal Timeline

October 2023:Amanda abruptly pulls out of Strictly after already missing a live concert. Her departure is announced in a vague statement from the BBC, which “wishes her the best”.

Giovanni posted a short message on social media to mark her exit, writing: “Amanda… I’m so sad that we can’t continue, but I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and I’m sending you lots of love.”

Amanda then shared her own farewell statement on Instagram, thanking her co-stars but neglecting to mention Gio.

Piero, Giovanni’s father, assured that there were no signs of a break-up and that the couple could have gone all the way. He praised his son for his kindness and politeness.

November 2023:Giovanni is said to be distraught over the situation and is considering his future on Strictly as questions arise over his conduct.

January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis is revealed and she demands surveillance cameras of the rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods were not acceptable.

The BBC issued a statement defending its duty of care to candidates, insisting it takes any allegations of wrongdoing very seriously.

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March 2024: Giovanni publicly states that he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with his close friend Anton du Beke.

Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the scene. The two celebrities, who previously worked with Giovanni on Strictly, reportedly did not feel the BBC was taking their concerns with his methods seriously enough.

The couple have a closed-door meeting with Amanda where tears are said to have been shed.

May 2024: We reveal that Giovanni is leaving the program after having discussions with the show’s managers

He leaves the country with his girlfriend Molly Brown on vacation

The BBC has launched an internal investigation after three complainants called in lawyers, with one source describing the situation as a “nightmare”.