Strictly Fans Convinced Stars Dropped Out After Zara McDermott Abuse Scandal
Strictly Come Dancing fans are speculating that several stars have pulled out of the show due to its current crisis. The BBC ballroom contest has been beset by negative publicity, with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice departing amid claims about his teaching methods, and Graziano Di Prima leaving after it was revealed that he kicked his 2023 celebrity partner Zara McDermott.
As the confirmation of this year’s contestants begins, with names like Pete Wicks, Toyah Willcox, and Wynne Evans announced so far, viewers believe that more prominent stars may have withdrawn from the competition, told The Sun.
“Starting to wonder how many celebrities pulled out of Strictly this year…” one person posted on X after the celebrity names started being revealed on TV and radio shows. Another commented, “This Strictly line-up so far is really giving last-minute replacements of bigger celebrities who have dropped out because of all the allegations…”
One fan speculated, “Guessing a couple of people have pulled out of Strictly from the announcements so far. Probably not the year to do it.” Another remarked, “I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the women pulled out after all the allegations and Strictly had to get more men to replace them.” Someone else wrote, “Is it unkind to think perhaps quite a few high-profile people have dropped out of Strictly this year…? The line-up has the unmistakable feel of a B-list.”
The Strictly saga began to unfold when Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington pulled out of the 2023 series early, alleging that her professional partner Giovanni’s behavior was “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean.” Giovanni has denied these allegations and has expressed his intention to clear his name.
Further controversy arose last month when it was reported that Graziano kicked his celebrity partner Zara during rehearsals. He has been removed from the show, and his spokesman told the BBC, “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 apologized at the time.”
This year’s Strictly line-up includes The Only Way is Essex star Pete Wicks, comedian Chris McCausland, JLS’ JB Gill, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, TV doctor Punam Krishan, singer Toyah Willcox, and opera star Wynne Evans. More names are expected to be announced as the show prepares for its upcoming season.