Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima has returned to social media and revealed he feels “stronger than ever” after his departure from the BBC series.
Di Prima was axed from the series back in July shortly after Giovanni Pernice – and was accused of “kicking and spitting” on celebrity partner Zara McDermott.
At the time of his axing, he penned on Instagram: “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. 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.”
In a separate statement, the BBC confirmed that Di Prima was no longer part of the professional line-up and was adamant the issues raised were being taken seriously.
Shortly after his departure, Di Prima’s spokesperson – Mark Borkowski – came out and revealed the Italian dancer had admitted to kicking McDermott.
The statement read: “There is never a time when kicking, or any sense of that is right. And he knows that. He knows he’s made a mistake. He apologised at the time,” he told the BBC.
Since then, Di Prima has kept his silence on social media and taken time away to clear his head after it was reported he wanted to sue the BBC and was being monitored 24/7.
Now, he has finally broken his silence and returned to his Instagram account, where he penned a lengthy post alongside a video of himself dancing with his wife, Giada Lini.
He wrote: “Dance has always been the centre of my life, my greatest passion, the path I chose and dedicated years of study, sacrifice, and love to.
“After a period of reflection, I feel stronger than ever and eager to return to what I love most: dancing.
“The future is a whole world of new open windows, ready to welcome new dreams and new challenges, and I’m excited to continue this journey with even more determination and inspiration.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who is always there for me. I’m thrilled to dance again with the same enthusiasm and dedication as always.
“See you soon, whether on stage or through new projects that I will be very excited to share with you.”
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Di Prima’s former Strictly co-stars such as Shirley Ballas, Kevin Clifton, Kelvin Fletcher, Nancy Xu and Vito Coppola all showed their support and liked the post.
Coppola praised: ”Friend of mine. One step at a time my friend…. Always surround yourself with people who love you and who, in one way or another, contribute to enriching your life with love, joy, smiles and lots of happiness. I love you.” (sic)
Fans were also quick to comment on his return, as one expressed: “Such wonderful news and just the message we want to hear when events in the world are so miserable currently. Dance like you do and make us all joyous again.”
“This is such great news Graz! Can’t wait to see you dance again,” another added before a third said: “You are missed so much on Strictly. I hope you receive an apology soon for how you were treated.”
A fourth penned: “Welcome Back! I understand everything has been so difficult but I hope this is you back, stronger than before and this is the new Graziano, ready for all the new projects and ventures to come.”
Someone else wrote: “Such wonderful news, so happy for you to be back doing what you love, and I can’t wait to see what plans you have! We have missed you!” (sic)