Delve into the backgrounds of Strictly professionals and it becomes clear ballroom and Latin American dancing isn't for the faint hearted. Several stars from the show have lifted the lid on the profession, revealing just how much they sacrificed and endured to reach the top. The BBC primetime programme is currently facing its biggest crisis in 20 years, in the wake of serious allegations made against several of its professionals.
Giovanni Pernice and Graziano di Parma were both dropped from this year's upcoming show following allegations of mistreatment of their celebrity matches last time around. Actress Amanda Abbington was partnered with Giovanni, 33, but quit the show after five weeks, going onto request footage of their training. Graziano, 30, was let go on July 13 this year following claims made by staff investigating his behaviour towards Zara McDermott .
Graziano took to his Instagram page to share a statement, saying he 'deeply regrets the events that led to my departure'. He added: "When the time is right, I will share my story." Giovanni has always strenuously denied the allegations against him.
This week, Paralympian Will Bayley claimed Strictly rehearsals left him with a 'horrific' injury he will never recover from. Will, who was forced to withdraw from Strictly after six weeks in 2019, said he 'didn't have an issue' with his pro partner Janette Manrara, but criticised the pressure the dancers allegedly came under from show producers. Brendan Cole, an ex-Strictly.