Zara McDermott has finally broken her silence after her former partner Graziano Di Prima was axed from Strictly.
On Saturday (July 13), the Italian dancer was fired from the BBC dance competition following allegations of “gross misconduct”. Now, the former Love Island star, 27, has shared a lengthy statement about her experience on the show online.
Taking to her Instagram Story, she wrote: “I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports. Strictly is one of the most magical shows on TV and one that I dreamt of being on since I was a little girl.
READ MORE: Beloved Strictly favourite tipped to ‘replace’ Graziano Di Prima after BBC axe
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“When I was invited to to be a contestant on the show it really was a childhood dream come true. I fully understood the level of commitment and hard work that Strictly was going to be and I dedicated everything to it.
(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
“I am a resilient person and I was fully prepared to put in whatever it took. And so much of my Strictly experience was everything I could have dreamt of.
“The entire production team and everyone behind the scenes as well as my fellow contestants were so amazing to work with.” Zara went on to explain how things changed when she stepped into the rehearsal studios with the professional dancer.
She continued: “However, my experience inside the training room was very different. Reports have been made about my treatment on the show and there were witnesses to some events, as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch.
(Image: BBC)
“I have wrestled with the fear of opening up – I was scared about public backlash, I was scared about my future, I was scared of victim shaming. But after a lot of conversations with those I love, I’ve gained the strength to face these fears, and when I was asked to speak to the BBC, I spoke candidly about my time on the show.
“The culture within our society makes it difficult for people to speak up, especially in a world where social media opinions and voices are so loud. This is something I’ve seen through working with countless women on my documentaries.
“I would like to thank the BBC & BBC Studios for their swift action and incredibly high level of support, as well as everyone who has reached out to me – it really means a lot. Love, always. Zara [heart emoji].”
It comes after Graziano expressed his regret shortly after the news of his Strictly exit was announced. The 30-year-old stated that he “deeply regrets” what happened that led to his departure from the show.
Taking to Instagram, he wrote: “While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it’s only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasn’t allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.
“There’s more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.”
The BBC announced that he wouldn’t be returning for the upcoming series hours before they confirmed that Aljaz Skorjanec would be returning to the dance show. Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
