Graziano Di Prima has left Strictly Come Dancing following abuse allegations (Image: GETTY) Axed Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima previously shared how he was physically and mentally preparing for what was meant to be his sixth season on the show this year, before getting the boot. Just last month, the 30-year-old was announced as one of the professionals who would be returning to this year's special 20th anniversary show, alongside the likes of Gorka Marquez, Katya Jones and Johannes Radebe. In a turn of events last week however, the BBC confirmed that he will not be returning following allegations about his behaviour towards 2023 celebrity partner Zara McDermott .
The Italian dancer has since released a statement telling fans that he "deeply regrets" the events that led to his departure, and explained he will speak out further when the time is right. Just months before he was set to take to the dance floor again, Graziano shared the way he prepares for the intense training that comes with the show. Speaking on the Pink Mondo podcast in January, he said: "I know I've got a massive job from now, jumping to other jobs until June.
"I have to force myself to stop and take a break because then the next season is coming back and I want to be in the best shape of form, physically and mentally." On what he considers a relaxing break, the dancer said doing "simple stuff" with family, such as visiting vineyards, back in Italy is his preference. At the time, the dan.