Graziano Di Prima has been accused of “screaming abuse” at Strictly partner Zara McDermott and calling her “nasty names” in the latest news surrounding the scandal.
Last weekend, the BBC confirmed that the Italian dancer, 30, would not return to the show following allegations of gross misconduct. Graziano has been accused of hitting, kicking and spitting at Zara.
In a statement shortly after, Graziano said he “deeply regrets the events that led to my departure from Strictly”.
A rep for the star has since said he did kick Zara and “apologised at the time”.
Now, more details have reportedly emerged about Graziano’s alleged treatment of Zara during Strictly training.
Graziano has been accused of “screaming abuse” at Strictly partner Zara McDermott (Credit: BBC)
Graziano Di Prima on Strictly
A source allegedly told The Sun: “Zara ran to the toilets and locked herself in. He chased after her and was screaming abuse. He was aggressive and called her nasty names. It was really scary.”
They continued: “You could constantly hear Graziano screaming but when production staff opened the door he would stop. He’d say, ‘How the [bleep] are you not getting this right?’, and ‘Why are we even bothering to come here?’. Zara was visibly demoralised.
“Just before their live performance on Halloween, Graziano asked Zara if she had gained weight. She didn’t put her foot in the right direction and he was being forceful with her. She was crying behind the curtain during final rehearsals. After some of the incidents he’d call and apologise and promise to not do it again.”
Graziano allegedly made a comment about Zara’s weight before their Halloween performance (Credit: BBC)
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