Graziano Di Prima announces shock exit from Strictly
He posted a statement explaining
Last updated 15th Jul 2024
Graziano Di Prima has announced that he will no longer be taking part in the 2024 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Despite having been confirmed as one of the professional dancers for the upcoming season, he will now not be involved in the show.
Graziano, who has been on Strictly since from 2018, took to Instagram with a statement, confirming that he would be leaving Strictly after his "intense passion and determination to win might have affected" his training regime.
He 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.
'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.
'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.'
No further details have been confirmed in an official capacity about Graziano's exit from the show despite rumours circulating online.
The news comes just a few weeks after fellow Strictly professional Giovanni Pernice was confirmed to not be returning in the 2024 line-up following allegations of "abusive and threatening behaviour" during rehearsals with his celebrity partners.
Taking to Instagram, he wrote: 'Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media. As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false. I am cooperating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.
'As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.'
Scroll through to see which celebrities are rumoured to be taking part in Strictly 2024:
Stacey Solomon
Another well-known name on this year's rumoured list is Stacey Solomon! Stacey is no strange to working with the BBC, with her show Sort Your Life Out now onto its sixth series, as well as her reality show Stacey & Joe airing earlier this year. With the mum-of-five being a fan favourite, bosses will be keen to get her signature.
Tom Parker Bowles
Food critic Tom Parker Bowles, also known as Queen Camilla's son, is reportedly top of the BBC's wish list for the 2025 series!
Angellica Bell
Just months after appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, TV and Radio presenter Angellica Bell is also rumoured for Strictly, after recently expressing her interest in taking part in the show.
Sir Mo Farah
Although in the very early stages, BBC bosses are reportedly keen to sign Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah.
Ashley Cain
Reality TV star and fundraiser Ashley Cain could also make an appearance on the 2025 series, with The Mirror saying: "He's a proper character with a very interesting background that looks the part. He would be a great addition to the Strictly line up. He's presented a couple of BBC shows and has really impressed."
Georgia Toffolo
According to reports, another name on the BBC's wish list is former I'm A Celeb and Made In Chelsea star Georgia 'Toff' Toffolo.
It has also been confirmed that fan-favourite Aljaž Škorjanec will return to Strictly, after leaving the show in 2022, to make up the numbers. He confirmed the news on Instagram, writing: 'bbcstrictly is back for the 20th anniversary this autumn…. and so am I!
'So grateful for this very special opportunity. Can’t wait to be back in that iconic ballroom, and to get the chance for my little one to see me on the best show on TV🙏🏻.' (sic)
Now read:
Strictly Come Dancing reveals 2024 professional dancers
Giovanni Pernice releases statement following Strictly Come Dancing exit
Aljaž Škorjanec is returning to Strictly as a pro dancer