The glitterball has dimmed for one Strictly Come Dancing professional as Graziano Di Prima makes an emotional exit from the show's live tour due to a devastating family crisis.
The Italian dancer, known for his fiery performances and partnership with Zara McDermott in the latest series, released a heartfelt statement confirming his sudden departure from the nationwide arena tour.
Family First: Sicilian Star Rushes Home
Di Prima revealed he's returning to his native Sicily to be with his family during what he described as a "very difficult time." While specific details about the emergency remain private, the dancer emphasised that family must always come first, even at the peak of his professional commitments.
"It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce I will no longer be joining the Strictly Live Tour," the 29-year-old shared. "There has been a serious family emergency back home in Sicily and I need to be with my family at this incredibly difficult time."
Tour Continues With Replacement
The show must go on for the Strictly arena spectacular, which continues its run across the UK with replacement dancers stepping in. The production team has expressed their full support for Di Prima's decision, acknowledging the personal nature of his situation.
Fellow professionals and cast members have rallied around their colleague, sending messages of support and understanding during this challenging period. The tight-knit Strictly community has once again shown its strength when one of their own faces personal turmoil.
Fan Support Floods In
Since the announcement, Strictly viewers and Di Prima's fans have flooded social media with messages of compassion and well-wishes. Many have praised his courage in prioritising family over career, while others have shared their own experiences with similar difficult choices between professional commitments and personal crises.
The dancer concluded his statement with gratitude for the understanding he's received: "I send my love and best wishes to the whole Strictly family and will be supporting from afar."
