Strictly pros risk BBC upset as they show support for axed Graziano Di Prima

Strictly Come Dancing professionals could cause upset after publicly showing their support to axed Graziano Di Prima as one former co-star declares 'I love you'

Some Strictly Come Dancing professionals have decided to show their support to axed Graziano Di Prima despite his axing from the show.

The professional dancer was sacked from the hit BBC dance competition earlier this year in the wake of scandal surrounding the show. He was forced to admit he had kicked his 2023 celebrity partner Zara McDermott while they were working together on Strictly in 2023. Graziano had enjoyed a glittering career on the programme since 2018.

Four months after his shameful exit, Graziano has proved he will keep dancing and is set to make a return to the spotlight. He shared a moody video with his followers this week as he was joined by his wife Giada Lini - who is also a professional dancer and a star of the Italian version of Dancing With The Stars.

In a defiant message, Graziano wrote: "Dance has always been the center of my life, my greatest passion, the path I chose and dedicated years of study, sacrifice, and love to. After a period of reflection, I feel stronger than ever and eager to return to what I love most: dancing."

Following his post, some Strictly professionals have risked the wrath of the BBC as they decided to show support to Graziano. Head judge Shirley Ballas and professionals Katya Jones and Nancy Xu have liked the post so far. Vito Coppla, who is paired with actress Sarah Hadland, left a comment that read: "Friend of mine. One step at a time my friend... Always surround yourself with people who love you and who, in one way or another, contribute to enrich your life with love, joy, smiles and lots of happiness. I love you."

He was accused of "physical and verbal behaviour" towards his celebrity partner of last year, Love Island's Zara McDermott. Bosses took action following Amanda Abbington's complaints about her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, which sent the show into chaos. When the accusations were revealed, Graziano said: "While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it's only right for the sake of the show that I step away."

He added: "I am saddened that I wasn't allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation. There's more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future."

In his social media return this week, Graziano hinted to a bright future. He wrote: "The future is a whole world of new open windows, ready to welcome new dreams and new challenges, and I’m excited to continue this journey with even more determination and inspiration."

He then turned to his fans who have stood by him throughout his scandal, writing: "A heartfelt thank you to everyone who is always there for me. I’m thrilled to dance again with the same enthusiasm and dedication as always. See you soon, whether on stage or through new projects that I will be very excited to share with you."

In a further update, the professional dancer thanked his fans yet again. He posted to his Instagram Story: "So grateful for all of your comments and messages. You mean more than words can say. Thank you, truly, to each and everyone of you." He then confirmed he would be returning to the stage in London next month in a dance class with Pasquale La Rocca.

The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.

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