Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show’s Italian version – just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

As a seasoned observer of human behavior and the complexities of public figures’ lives, I find myself deeply troubled by the recent events involving Graziano di Prima and Giovanni Pernice, both beloved figures in the world of dance.


On a pleasant day in Rome, Graziano Di Prima and his spouse, Giada Lini, strolled together, showing unity, prior to the broadcast of Strictly Come Dancing’s opening episode this coming Saturday.

For the first time since getting fired from the BBC show in July following allegations of verbal and physical abuse towards his dance partner Zara McDermott, aged 27, during the previous season, this 30-year-old dancer has been seen in pictures.

A man from Italy, casually dressed in a white Diesel shirt and green camouflage shorts, struck an easygoing pose when he encountered Giada, a well-known figure on Italy’s Dancing with the Stars, at the program’s studios located in the capital city.

As an ardent admirer, I paired my ensemble with a striking duo of red and black Air Jordans, added a touch of coolness with tinted sunnies, and completed the look with petite hoop earrings that danced with every move.

As I meandered through the bustling metropolis, my eyes were glued to my phone and my black backpack held close, containing my necessities, demonstrating Graziano’s undivided attention.

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

While wearing a stylish set consisting of blue-and-white patterned shorts and a matching white crop top, Giada showcased her long legs.

She completed her appearance with big hoop earrings and fashionable sunglasses, gathering her golden hair into an organized bun.

The pair openly displayed affection, as Giada ascended to hug her spouse on the sidewalk and tenderly gripped his hand while strolling together.

At a certain moment, it seemed like Graziano raised his T-shirt, possibly to show his wife something on his abdomen.

After the highly anticipated return of Strictly for its historic 20th season tonight, the show has been plunged into chaos following news that the BBC dismissed professional dancer Giovanni Pernice amid allegations of bullying.

After multiple accusations of abusive conduct emerged, the long-standing dance program saw the departure of Giovanni and Graziano Di Prima.

Speaking about his departure from “Strictly”, Graziano expressed his deep remorse for the circumstances that led to it. He admitted that his strong desire and zeal to emerge victorious may have influenced his training methods.

In adherence with the BBC’s personnel procedures, I believe it is best for the well-being of the program that I choose to withdraw my participation. I am regretful that I was unable to provide a statement for the digital news articles, and I fully understand the delicacy of this situation. I will remain considerate and mindful in all future actions.

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

‘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.’

Last year, it was uncovered by TopMob that the team behind Strictly had expressed worries about Graziano’s behavior, however, higher-ups chose to deliver discreet advisories instead of taking more substantial action.

It’s widely reported that the group was outraged because they believed he should have been dismissed immediately due to their allegations against him being disregarded, thus enabling the mistreatment of Zara to persist. Remarkably, Graziano was still hired for the future 2024 season of Strictly.

According to a source from the program, there were several instances when both physical and vocal assaults occurred. While the physical ones were more frequent, both types were extremely unpleasant.

Only nine months after the initial complaint, it wasn’t until they obtained a video which appeared to show Graziano repeatedly striking Zara, that he ultimately lost his job.

Earlier, a group of supporters – both his well-known peers from Strictly Come Dancing like Katya Jones, Susannah Constantine, and Catherine Tyldesley, along with many other fans – had shown their backing by liking and commenting on his Instagram post about leaving.

Nevertheless, Catherine, who danced with Johannes Radebe during the show in 2019, has since deleted one of her encouraging remarks.

In my own words, I finally spoke up about Graziano’s dismissal in a detailed post on Instagram. I expressed that my time on Strictly was nearly everything I had ever hoped for, but there were specific occurrences within the training room with Graziano that left me deeply distressed.

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

Zara explained that she didn’t report the incidents at the time as she was ‘scared’ of backlash.

During the ongoing investigation into professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, it was the junior production team members who stepped forward to disclose what they had observed.

Later on, I acknowledged that I had overstepped some boundaries, but let it be known that I did not spit at Zara. I maintained that my actions were a singular, unfortunate incident.

The spokesperson for Zara responded by stating: “The BBC considered his behavior extremely serious, and as a result, he was promptly taken off the air.

It’s been made clear by Zara, through a post she shared on social media recently, that the behavior in question wasn’t an isolated event.

Graziano maintains that he’s always been careful not to harm others intentionally. He declared that malicious, unfounded claims destroyed his life within moments – affecting his career, finances, mental health, and reputation.

On Saturday, Giovanni Pernice, who had recently departed from the BBC show due to a dispute, was seen grinning broadly as he took playful photos with his dancing partner following the start of their rehearsals for the Italian equivalent of “Strictly Come Dancing.

It was recently revealed that the Italian professional dancer, 34, had signed up to Ballando con le Stelle after leaving the UK show amid bullying claims made by former dance partner Amanda Abbington.

Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens
Graziano Di Prima is seen for the first time since he was sacked from Strictly over abuse claims as he joins his wife Giada Lini at rehearsals for the show's Italian version - just hours before the BBC favourite returns to screens

Although the BBC has not disclosed the findings of their investigation concerning the actress’ allegations, I, as a lifestyle expert, have noticed that Giovanni has been steadfastly moving forward with his professional pursuits. He recently participated in an Italian dance competition, partnering with Graziano’s wife.

Over the weekend, Giovanni posted playful pictures on Instagram alongside the 43-year-old Italian actress and singer, Bianca Guaccero. These photos were shared right before the anticipated debut of the UK show.

Giovanni had a relaxed appearance in his black tee, whereas Bianca donned a vibrant purple vest for the photos. The duo showcased their connection by standing near each other for the shot.

In the caption, they wrote: “Exhausted yet joyful, abundant, eager to offer their top performance, and prepared to bring laughter and inspire your dreams!

‘September 28 is getting closer. Are you ready to support us?’

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2024-09-14 17:34

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