‘Strictly’ Pro Giovanni Di Prima Denies Abusing Celeb Partner After Firing

The Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer recently fired by the BBC following allegations of kicking his celebrity partner has given his first interview. He firmly denies ever assaulting his partner and claims the “vile, false allegations have ruined his life in a matter of minutes.”

Graziano Di Prima was terminated from the show after accusations surfaced that he had assaulted television presenter Zara McDermott during rehearsals last season. The allegations included kicking, hitting, and spitting. Upon his departure, Di Prima publicly apologized, admitting that his competitive training regime sometimes led to mistakes.

This weekend, in an interview with the Daily Mail from his native Italy, where he has returned to live, the dancer said:

• The BBC will not disclose the exact accusations due to confidentiality obligations.

• He once kicked the floor in frustration, and his foot brushed McDermott’s body. He apologized immediately, and they continued training together.

• McDermott continued to send him friendly messages after the show concluded until July of this year. Shortly after their last exchange, the BBC informed him of his firing.

• Family members now constantly watch over him, fearing he may cause himself harm following his high-profile dismissal.

Di Prima was a beloved professional dancer on the BBC show for six years before his sudden exit. He now insists on his determination to dance professionally again, stating that he won’t let this controversy define his life.

The BBC’s director-general Tim Davie issued a public apology two weeks ago after several contestants voiced concerns about their behind-the-scenes treatment. In response, the BBC has implemented new procedures for the upcoming season, including having a chaperone present at all times during rehearsals. Davie asserted that the BBC takes all complaints seriously.

The long-running show’s reputation suffered further after another contestant, Amanda Abbington, revealed she had been diagnosed with PTSD following her training with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. Pernice, who has also left the show, denies all allegations against him, and the BBC has yet to conclude its investigation.