Strictly confirms future of the show after abuse allegations and Graziano axe
STRICTLY Come Dancing bosses have confirmed the show is returning after abuse allegations and Graziano Di Prima's axe.
It comes as they announced new measures to protect celebrities taking part in the series.
The show has been plunged into crisis after female celebrities came forward to complain about their treatment in rehearsals.
Graziano was axed from the show after shocking footage of his allegedn behaviour towards Zara McDermott was revealed.
Just months before, Giovanni Pernice, 33, left the show under investigation by the BBC following allegations of misconduct made by Amanda Abbington, which he denies.
In a fresh announcement today bosses have confirmed the show WILL return in September with presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the helm.
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Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse are also returning to judge 15 new celebrities in the ballroom.
In addition, bosses have invited Strictly fans to apply to watch the professionals performing their pre-recorded dance numbers for the 2024 series.
A statement said: "Strictly Come Dancing will be bringing the sparkle back to Saturday nights on BBC One later this year.
"And in advance of this year's live shows we have an exciting opportunity to experience a taste of the magical studio experience by applying for tickets to watch our Strictly pros in action!"
The announcement comes hours after The Sun revealed Strictly's golden couple Strictly's Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington split after two years of datin have split after two years of dating.
Strictly announced their line-up of professional dancers ealier this year, and Giovanni was off the list.
Then last week they pulled Graziano from the 2024 line-up.
The Sun also revealed a third pro dancer has been identified as a “person of interest” amid the probe into Strictly.
Insiders said the name of the male dancer, who is no longer part of the BBC show, had been given to lawyers Carter Ruck.
A source said: “A professional’s name has come up, alongside Giovanni and Graziano.
“He is no longer part of the show but he has been named as a person of interest. Conversations are ongoing and there are more people who need to be spoken to.
“A dossier is being compiled which will be handed over to the BBC."
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."