Strictly’s Graziano Di Prima in fresh blow as former contestant deletes supportive message following axe

Di Prima was initially met with a flurry of support after the BBC axed him from the show, to which he admitted in a lengthy statement “I understand it’s best for the show that I step away.”

Among others, former Strictly star Susannah Constantine, who was paired with Anton Du Beke back in 2018, stated following the news of Di Prima’s removal from the show: “What the hell??? You were always so sweet, kind, funny and thoughtful to me Graziano. Be true to yourself. Cream always rises to the top. Loads of love xxxx.”

However, the journalist and writer has since deleted the supportive message. It comes after McDermott, 27, released a public statement over the claims.

The former Love Island star reflected on the “distressing” experience she had behind the scenes of last year’s show after footage of her rehearsals with Di Prima was reviewed.

She explained that while she “fully understood the level of commitment and hard work” needed to take part in the competition, her “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,” she noted.

Following McDermott’s acknowledgement of the claims, it seems Constantine has retracted her public support of the Italian dancer.

Concluding her lengthy social media post, McDermott said: “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 truly means a lot. Love, always. Zara.”

It has since been reported that Di Prima is planning to “sue” the BBC over the unceremonious axing.