CRISIS-hit Strictly was given a much-needed vote of confidence last night — after Zara McDermott made a dramatic return as a ballroom guest. Her surprise appearance in the audience was a welcome sight for the BBC show rocked by a string of bullying allegations and months of turmoil. Zara, 27, came back just weeks after former dance partner Graziano Di Prima was axed for kicking her in rehearsals.
The former Love Islander joined boyfriend Sam Thompson, 32, as they cheered on pal Pete Wicks for his first live performance. A source said: “Zara was there to support her mate - but it does look good for the BBC too. “It’s a massive vote of confidence for them and bosses must be ecstatic.
Read More on TV “Zara is trying to put everything behind her and just wants to move on. “This shows that she still has a lot of love for Strictly - and wants the world to see that. “Her and Sam seem to be better than ever too.
” Zara and I’m A Celebrity Winner Sam were hit by split rumours earlier this year. Most read in News TV But they presented a united front last night for reality star Pete as he took to the dancefloor with his pro partner Jowita Przystal, 30 . We revealed in July that Zara’s former dance partner Graziano had been sacked from Strictly after bosses were shown shocking footage of clashes with the telly star.
The Italian, 30, was accused of hitting, spitting and kicking her during rehearsals for last year’s series. He has since admitted to kicking her by mista.