AXED Strictly star Graziano Di Prima has broken his silence after being sacked from the BBC show.

The pro dancer, 30, said he “deeply regrets” events that led to his departure from the series, which was exclusively revealed by The Sun earlier today after ‘physical incidents’ involving former celeb partner, Zara McDermott.

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Graziano Di Prima has broken his silenceCredit: Getty

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He was fired after an incident involving former partner Zara McDermottCredit: PA

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Graziano and Zara appeared to get on well during their time on the showCredit: instagram

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The show is still mired in the fallout from the Giovanni Pernice scandalCredit: PA
In a statement shared to his instagram, 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.”

It comes as The Sun broke the news that Graziano was given the boot from the show on Monday night.

The Italian dancer will not appear in the next series of the programme despite the Beeb announcing him in the line-up.

An insider told us that his departure follows an internal investigation into a number of physical incidents involving Zara, who was partnered with him on last year’s series.

The BBC today released a statement.

The broadcasting giant said: “We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.

“While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.”

A Beeb source added to the The Sun: “They moved very quickly in this situation and have offered Zara support she needs.

“It’s a shock for everyone involved.”

Graziano’s exit follows Giovanni Pernice’s highly publicised departure from the BBC show.

Giovanni’s former partner Amanda Abbington has taken legal action after she quit the show, citing “medical reasons”.

She has demanded the release of rehearsal footage from her time working with Giovanni, claiming it will prove her claims.

Giovanni, for his part, has denied any wrongdoing.