As someone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes in the entertainment industry for years, I can’t help but feel deeply saddened by the recent revelations regarding Giovanni Graziano and his treatment of Zara McDermott on Strictly Come Dancing. Having witnessed firsthand the power dynamics at play within production teams, I understand how difficult it is for junior staff to come forward with allegations against high-profile individuals.
As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to share an insight from the recent news about Zara McDermott’s experience on Strictly Come Dancing and her trainer Graziano Di Prima. It has been reported that during their training sessions, Graziano implemented a strict rule which led to Zara suffering from bleeding. In light of allegations of abusive behavior towards Zara in rehearsals, it is essential to clarify the context of this situation.
Last week, the BBC dismissed the 30-year-old professional dancer due to allegations from the previous Love Island season that he had struck and kicked the 27-year-old contestant. Since then, he has issued an apology for his inappropriate actions against her in a public statement.
Recently, fresh information has come to light, causing old discussions about Graziano’s strict training regimen to re-emerge. Previously, Zara disclosed that he forbade her from wearing high heels.
As an eager fan looking back, I recall how the reality star shared her experiences during the initial stages of the series in September with The Sun. She disclosed that her rigorous training under Graziano’s guidance had left her with raw, open wounds on my feet due to his insistence that I wear men’s dance shoes for practice.
“Graziano advised me against wearing high heels and instead suggested I dance in men’s shoes at the beginning. He then procured a pair for me, which are men’s shoes featuring a small Cuban heel.”
‘I told him, “It’s not working, I need to take them off” and he said, “No, no you’re fine”.
Based on my personal experience, I can relate to the pain and discomfort of having to remove shoes that were causing harm. I remember a time when I insisted to my friends that I was not exaggerating about the pain I felt in my feet, only for them to be skeptical. I eventually took off my shoes and showed them the raw, bleeding soles. It was a humbling moment, but one that taught me the importance of listening to my body and standing up for my own comfort and well-being. So when someone tells me they’re in pain or discomfort, I make it a point to believe them and offer support rather than dismissing their concerns.
She added: ‘My feet are feeling better this week, I feel like they’re getting harder now.’
After Zara issued a new statement on Thursday, she fiercely responded to Graziano’s claim that his inappropriate actions during rehearsals were an isolated occurrence.
The dancer acknowledged that he had overstepped a boundary, but he vehemently rejected accusations of spitting at Zara. He maintained that his actions were an isolated occurrence.
I, as a devoted representative of Zara, would like to respond to The BBC’s report. It is a well-documented fact that the BBC considered his behavior to be extremely serious and promptly took action by removing him from the program right away.
In her social media announcement earlier this week, Zara made it clear that the alleged behavior was not an isolated occurrence.
Graziano’s representative expressed remorse for having kicked Zara in the past, but refuted allegations that he had spit at her on that occasion.
Although they acknowledge that Graziano “pushed Zara forcefully” during training, they maintain that the accounts do not match up with his own recollections.
Moving forward, it is argued that the Italian celebrity, now residing in Sicily once more, finds himself in a precarious position following the controversy.
Mark Borkowski, speaking on behalf of Mr. Di Prima, stated: “Recent news coverage has centered around an incident that occurred this week, which Mr. Di Prima expresses remorse for and offered apologies shortly after.”
I’ve been following the overwhelming amount of comments with concern. Sadly, many lacked the necessary context and depth, leading to a barrage of criticism towards a young man who is now in a highly exposed and fragile position.
After Mark’s statement to BBC News that “kicking is never appropriate and he understands that,” he acknowledged his error and issued an apology.
According to news articles, he remarked: “However, [Graziano] he disputes some aspects of it. The portrayals of the situation in social media and his own recollections don’t match up.”
Based on my personal perspective and understanding of the situation, it seems that this individual has made a deliberate decision to disconnect from modern civilization as a means of addressing his mental health challenges. I admire his courage and determination to prioritize his well-being above societal expectations. His wife’s support adds validation to his choice. It takes great strength to confront one’s inner demons and seek solace in self-imposed isolation. May their journey towards healing be filled with peace and progress.
Last week, the BBC became aware of a video featuring Graziano’s proposed idea, despite his belief that the issue had already been settled. As a result, he was let go from the show.
An investigation ensued following allegations of misconduct against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice from his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington on “Strictly.” As a consequence, Giovanni chose to exit the program. However, he refutes the accusations.
Based on what sources close to the production have shared, the revelation of distressing videos showing Graziano treating Zara unfairly led bosses to terminate his employment agreement.
In an Instagram post regarding his exit from Strictly, Graziano expressed his deep regret over the circumstances that led to his departure. His fervent desire and commitment to winning could have potentially influenced his training methods.
‘Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it’s best for the show that I step away.’
Based on my personal perspective, it seems that the speaker is going through a challenging time in their life, possibly involving external influences which they are unable to disclose at present. However, despite these difficulties, they have made a commitment to staying strong for their loved ones. This shows great resilience and dedication towards maintaining stability and support for those around them during trying times. It takes immense courage to face hardships while also being there for one’s family and friends. I admire the speaker’s determination and hope that they find the strength to overcome any obstacles in their path.
‘I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.’
At the end of his post, he expressed gratitude to all those who have helped him in his professional and personal growth. He promised to reveal his own experiences when the moment feels appropriate.
On Taylor’s confession day, Zara spoke up, acknowledging her apprehension about reporting Graziano due to concerns for what may lie ahead.
On Instagram as well, she expressed: “I believed it was important to share my thoughts on the latest news. Strictly is an enchanting television program for me, a long-held dream to be a part of since my childhood.”
Receiving an invitation to join the show as a contestant brought back memories of my cherished childhood dreams. I acknowledged the significant time and effort Strictly required, and devoted all my energy to it. As a robust individual, I embraced the challenge and was determined to put in whatever was necessary.
My time on Strictly was better than I ever imagined. The entire production team, those working behind the scenes, and my fellow contestants were all fantastic to collaborate with.
Despite the positive portrayal outside, my time in the training room felt quite contrary. There have been complaints about how I was handled during filming, with various eyewitnesses and footage of specific occurrences that are truly unsettling to view.
Zara explained that she didn’t report the incidents at the time as she was ‘scared’ of backlash.
During the investigation into Giovanni, it was the junior production team members who stepped forward to disclose what they had observed.
According to a reliable insider from the program, there were several instances of both violent and abusive behavior. The physical assaults outnumbered the verbal ones, but all of it was truly distressing.
Zara went on in her speech, expressing her apprehensions: I’ve struggled with the anxiety of revealing myself – I was worried about negative reactions from the public, uncertain about what the future held, and fearful of being blamed as a victim.
After many heartfelt discussions with my loved ones, I found the courage within myself to tackle my fears head-on. When the BBC approached me for an interview, I chose to share my experiences on their platform in a sincere and open manner.
After grappling with the anxiety of sharing my experiences, I had concerns about potential criticism from the public, uncertainty about my future, and the possibility of victim blaming. However, through numerous heartfelt conversations with those closest to me, I mustered the courage to confront these fears. When the BBC invited me to speak openly about my time on their show, I did so honestly and without reservation.
In today’s societal norms, expressing one’s thoughts openly can be challenging for many individuals, even as social media platforms amplify diverse voices and opinions. From my experience producing numerous documentaries, I have observed this trend among numerous women.
I’m grateful to the BBC and BBC Studios for their quick response and exceptional assistance, not forgetting those who have contacted me – it means more than you know. With appreciation, Zara.
Graziano, who was supposed to participate in his seventh season of Strictly before being let go, is now suing the BBC, according to TopMob’s announcement on Monday.
And the broadcaster has vowed to fight back against Giovanni’s claims.
The Sicilian dancer thought he required “guidance and assistance” from his superiors following their cautions concerning his actions towards Zara.
An insider from the BBC shared this perspective: “Why would any workplace, especially one funded by the public, extend assistance to someone whose behavior was clearly despicable?”
On Wednesday, TopMob announced that Graziano has taken up a job at a vineyard in Sicily, working remotely and earning approximately £6 an hour.
After leaving the UK to return to his Italian hometown with his wife Giada, a well-known dancer on Italy’s Strictly Come Dancing equivalent, Graziano has chosen to work on a farm. There, he spends his days tilling the soil, cohabiting with cows, and harvesting grapes.
As a dedicated follower of my craft, I find myself immersed in the daily routine of digging ditches and clearing wood in Italy, away from the buzzing distractions back home. My recent unexpected exit from Strictly has generated quite a commotion, but here in the serene Italian countryside, I am focusing on honing my skills and finding solace in the simplicity of manual labor.
I’m completely absorbed in my world right now, focusing all my energy on communicating with only two precious souls in my life – my mother Giovanna and my beloved wife Giada. Every fiber of my being is devoted to finding clarity and inner peace. In this moment, social media and the internet don’t exist for me; they are but distant distractions as I hunker down within the sanctuary of my close-knit circle. My friends and family understand that I’m in a fragile state, and they graciously grant me the space to work through my thoughts and emotions undisturbed.
A friend shared with TopMob that Graziano believes his dancing career in the UK may have come to an end due to the scandal. However, there’s optimism that he can revive his profession since dancing is allegedly what his physique is best suited for.
A friend mentioned that Graziano has returned to fundamental work on the farm. Alone in the fields, he digs trenches and clears brush – common procedures to reduce fire hazards. He earns little, yet it’s not about the compensation.
Growing up, he was accustomed to doing manual labor starting at the age of eight. This keeps his mind engaged and serves as a diversion from the unpleasant aftermath of leaving Strictly behind.
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2024-07-19 17:40