A fan-favourite Strictly star is set to ‘replace’ Graziano Di Prima’s, experts claim.
On Saturday (July 13), the Italian dancer was axed from the BBC dance competition following claims of “gross misconduct”. It was later claimed by The Sun that the star physically and verbally abused his former celebrity partner Zara McDermott.
The pro dancer later told fans that he would no longer be a part of the upcoming series – despite being confirmed to return last month. He wrote on Instagram: “I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly.
READ MORE: Strictly’s Maisie Smith and Max George ‘devastated’ as they announce loss
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“My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime. While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it’s only right for the sake of the show that I step away.
(Image: BBC)
“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.” Now, a celebrity body language expert has exclusively revealed to Daily Star which pro dancer could be stepping into his shoes.
PR guru Rochelle White believes that Kevin Clifton could be returning to the show after four years away. She told us: “With Graziano Di Prima leaving Strictly, I think Kevin Clifton could return to the show and would be a good move for him and also the BBC show.
“He was a loved dancer and a firm fan-favourite. I think that fans would be happy and excited to see him dance again, plus the show has been struggling with viewership over the past few years so this could be a welcomed boost.
(Image: BBC / Guy Levy)
“It could attract past viewer back and inject a new lease of life back into the show.” Kevin first joined the dance competition back in 2012 and dazzled viewers for eight years before he left the show in March 2020.
During his time on the programme, he partnered up with Susanna Reid, Frankie Bridge, Kellie Bright, Louise Redknapp and Stacey Dooley. It comes after the TV star showed his support after Aljaz Skorjanec announced he was returning to the show for the 20th anniversary series.
After the news hit the headlines, Kevin was one of his first pals to congratulate him on the exciting news. The 41-year-old shared of the pair together during dance rehearsals as he passed on his well wishes.
(Image: Getty Images)
He captioned the post: “Very excited for the return of my boy @aljazskorjanex to @bbcstrictly. A winner in his first year, great dancer, great teacher and a lovely guy [fist bump emoji].
“Can’t wait to watch [smiling emoji, peace emoji].” After reading his heartfelt message, fans couldn’t help but flood to the comments to beg the ballroom expert to also return to the show.
One user penned: “Come on King Kevin… we’re waiting on you returning too [heart emoji, praise emoji].” Another agreed: “Let’s hope you come back soon too Kevin.”
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
A third echoed: “Your turn to come back now then Kevin. Reckon if they did a poll asking who’s the favourite pro of all time you would win it hands down!” Meanwhile a fourth gushed: “They need to ask you back to @bbcstrictly.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
