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Strictly Come Dancing JUDGE now facing misconduct probe over historic row and ‘1970s-style behaviour’
Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show this week after claims he 'hit, spat at and kicked' Zara McDermott
CONCERNS have been raised over Anton Du Beke’s promotion to judge despite him previously calling celeb Laila Rouass a “P***”.
Social media users this week dug up Anton's 2009 comment — made in response to Laila having a spray tan — and asked why he wasn’t sacked.
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Laila stormed out of at the time. Anton, 58, later apologised. BBC bosses stood by him and in 2021 made him a £200,000-a-year judge.
Actress Laila — dating snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan — has since been in touch with complainants about her time on the show.
She has been inundated with support, and is said to be considering legal action.
One source said: “Anton has a very 1970s attitude and can be abrasive.
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“The lines are becoming increasingly blurred as to what is acceptable or not, and of course, some people have found him fine to work with.
"But there were murmurings of discontent when he was a dancer. Yet the BBC promoted him. It is all quite strange.”
A source close to Anton said: “His comment was dealt with at the time and he wants to move on.”
Graziano Di Prima had his Strictly contract terminated on Monday following allegations he "hit, spat at and kicked" Zara McDermott during rehearsals last year.
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The allegations against Graziano came to light during the inquiry into claims that Giovanni bullied his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington on the last series - which he has strenuously denied.
Graziano broke his silence moments after his exit was announced and spoke of his "deep regret" over the damning claims.
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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."
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