Inside Zara McDermott’s return to Strictly after Graziano Di Prima’s shock sacking – and why bosses are ‘overjoyed’
STRICTLY bosses were “overjoyed” that Zara McDermott attended the opening show of the series, the Sun can reveal.
BBC execs think her decision to show up has helped “lift the cloud” hanging over the show.
Viewers were left shocked earlier this year when Graziano Di Prima was sacked for “gross misconduct” after footage emerged showing his treatment of Zara.
The former Love Island star was left traumatised by the incident which came as bosses probed claims Giovanni Pernice had bullied Amanda Abbington.
The BBC are still yet to announce their findings on those allegations.
But a source said Zara’s decision to attend last week and take a seat in the audience to support pal Pete Wicks has eased pressure on the programme.
The BBC insider said: “One of the claims that’s been leveled at the BBC, especially in relation to the Giovanni probe is that they’re not doing things properly or by the book.
“But the fact Zara has come back to the show and been willing to be a part of the Strictly family again paints a very different story.
“She’s been very happy at how the BBC has handled the whole thing. That’s why she was willing to come back.”
Graziano was sacked from Strictly following claims he’d hit, spat at and kicked Zara during rehearsals .
He has since admitted to kicking her by mistake but branded other claims “vile and false”.
He said in a statement: “I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly.”
The Sun also revealed that Zara had broken a leg bone in a tough training session during the show last year.
Graziano has since returned to his normal job, working for £6 an hour on a farm in his native Italy.
Yet he has hit back at the “shocking” way the pair’s friendship came to an end.
He told how “these vile, false allegations ruined my life in a matter of minutes — professionally, financially, psychologically and reputationally.”
Meanwhile, former Love Island star previously insisted the Strictly production team and those behind the scenes were “amazing to work with”.
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.”
However she added that her “experience inside the training room was very different”.
Zara explained: “There were witnesses to some events as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch.”
She signed off: “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.”