Zara McDermott, the former Love Island star, became a topic of heated discussion due to an incident during her participation in Strictly Come Dancing. In 2023, Zara competed in the show, partnering with professional dancer Graziano Di Prima. The pair delivered some impressive performances, but it was an alleged video incident that garnered significant attention, eventually leading to widespread rumours about Zara being “kicked” from the show.
This article delves into what happened, the context surrounding the claims, and the reactions from the public and media.
What Led to the “Kicked” Rumors?
The controversy started after reports surfaced that Zara was under immense pressure and allegedly had a “meltdown” behind the scenes. It was speculated that her behavior affected her professional relationship with Graziano, who was said to be “in bits” following the tension. Rumors suggested that Graziano was struggling to handle the situation, with claims of mental exhaustion that put him under constant monitoring. While Zara reportedly “left the studio in tears” after a particularly emotional rehearsal, the incident triggered speculations that she might be asked to leave or be removed from the show.
However, it is essential to note that neither Zara nor Graziano was formally “kicked” from Strictly. Instead, the pair continued to compete, and Zara spoke openly about the physical and emotional challenges she faced, often expressing gratitude for her partner’s support.
Graziano Di Prima’s Statement
In the aftermath of the escalating rumors, Graziano Di Prima broke his silence with a statement addressing the controversy. He expressed regret over the situation, apologizing to fans and the Strictly family for the incident. He acknowledged that his intense commitment to winning the competition may have contributed to the strain in rehearsals. However, Graziano refrained from going into the specifics of what transpired, hinting that there were “external influences” involved that he could not discuss at that time.
The BBC also released a statement in support of the show’s cast, reaffirming that their robust duty of care processes are always in place for such situations.
The Video: What Was It About?
The rumors that Zara McDermott was “kicked” from the show also stemmed from a video clip that circulated online. In this footage, Zara appeared visibly upset during rehearsals, seemingly at odds with her partner Graziano. While the video showed a tense moment between them, it was later clarified by Strictly staff that this was part of the intense rehearsals and not a reflection of personal animosity.
Viewers took to social media to discuss the video, with some interpreting the footage as proof that the situation had escalated beyond repair. However, both Zara and Graziano made appearances in later episodes, proving that while the stress was real, the pair remained dedicated to the competition.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The media coverage surrounding the incident painted a dramatic picture, with headlines hinting at potential fallout within the Strictly camp. Zara’s fans were quick to show their support, empathizing with her struggle to adapt to the physically demanding routines of the show. Some took to social media to express their disappointment in the way the media portrayed her, while others commended her resilience for pushing through the difficulties.
Graziano’s fans, too, expressed concern for the dancer, particularly after his emotional statement. There were speculations that his struggles could impact his future with Strictly, though no formal action was taken at that time.
Zara McDermott and Sam Thompson: Relationship Impact?
One of the other significant storylines that emerged during this time was the strain it allegedly placed on Zara’s relationship with her boyfriend, Sam Thompson. Media outlets reported that the couple had entered “crisis talks” after the incident, leading to speculations that the pressure from Strictly was spilling over into her personal life.
While neither Zara nor Sam confirmed the extent of these reports, sources close to the couple claimed that the reality star was temporarily living away from Sam during the height of the controversy. This, however, was later downplayed as a temporary arrangement for Zara to focus on her rehearsals.
What Happened Next?
Despite the intense scrutiny, Zara McDermott continued her Strictly journey for several weeks. As the competition went on, she gained praise for her dedication, and her performances improved. The emotional rollercoaster she endured became part of her narrative on the show, with fans and judges alike acknowledging the growth she displayed as a dancer.
Graziano Di Prima, too, regained his footing and remained supportive of Zara throughout their time together. They continued to deliver strong performances and silenced much of the controversy that had surrounded them earlier in the competition.
FAQs
Was Zara McDermott kicked off Strictly Come Dancing?
No, Zara was not kicked off Strictly. While there were rumors and media reports about tensions behind the scenes, she remained a part of the competition and continued to perform.
What was the controversy involving Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima?
The controversy arose from rumors of tension during rehearsals between Zara and Graziano. A video clip showing Zara visibly upset led to speculation that she might leave the show, but both she and Graziano continued to compete.
Did the controversy affect Zara McDermott’s relationship with Sam Thompson?
Media reports suggested that Zara’s relationship with Sam Thompson was under strain during the Strictly controversy. However, these claims were not officially confirmed, and the couple continued to support each other.
What did Graziano Di Prima say about the incident?
Graziano expressed regret over the situation and released a statement apologizing for any strain caused by his commitment to the competition. He hinted at external factors that contributed to the tension but did not provide specific details.
How did the public react to Zara McDermott’s involvement in Strictly Come Dancing?
Public reaction was mixed. While some criticized her for the drama, many fans supported Zara, commending her for pushing through the challenges and growing as a dancer.
Conclusion
The incident involving Zara McDermott on Strictly Come Dancing demonstrates the intense pressure reality stars can face when transitioning to high-stakes competitions. While the media-fueled speculation of a “kick-out” scenario, Zara’s resilience and determination to improve as a dancer became the focal point of her journey. Both she and Graziano Di Prima showed that, despite the challenges, they were able to persevere, providing fans with memorable performances and moving past the controversy. The situation highlighted the human side of reality TV, showing that behind the glamour lies real emotional and physical strain.
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