ZARA McDermott “passed out” during a demanding rehearsal with axed Strictly star Graziano Di Prima.
Resurfaced footage from last year’s series shows an exhausted Zara curled up on the training room floor ahead of Halloween week.
3
3
Zara shared the footage on social media at the time and told followers: “I think I’ve clocked around 50K steps already today with this routine.”
She then begged professional partner Graziano: “Give me a break please.”
In the clip Zara wore pink training shorts, a black vest and matching boots.
The BBC documentary maker is seen lying on her side, with her eyes firmly shut and resting her face on her hands.
Graziano joked at the time that Zara had “asked for five minutes break”.
Last night we revealed Graziano is fleeing the UK for a new life in Italy after he was axed from the show.
He was fired by the BBC after he was hit by claims he hit, spat and kicked dance partner Zara.
Insiders said the pro – who joined the BBC show in 2018 – had gone into hiding and was packing his bags for a fresh start abroad.
A source said: “Graziano is petrified and in a bad place.
“He is being supported by his wife Giada and they are planning to pack up and move back to Italy. This has killed his career dead and he knows it.
“Going back to Italy for a new beginning is what is best for him and Giada.”
He is also reportedly taking legal action against the BBC following his dismissal amid claims he wasn’t adequately supported at the time.
We revealed how the BBC had been warned twice about Graziano’s conduct towards Love Island star Zara, 27, during their training sessions last year.
Insiders said Graziano, 30, was given warnings but, at first, no action was taken.
It was only when Zara spoke to the BBC regarding the probe into Giovanni Pernice’s conduct that action was taken against Graziano.
A source said: “This whole Strictly fiasco is getting increasingly toxic, and the BBC finds itself trying to complete an investigation while overseeing duty of care to all.”
3
Graziano Di Prima – Strictly statement in FULL
GRAZIANO Di Prima has addressed his Strictly Come Dancing sacking with a statement on social media – see the details below.
In a statement shared to his Instagram page Graziano 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.”
He continued: “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.”
He concluded the post: “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.”
