BBC breaks silence as Strictly Come Dancing star axed over misconduct allegations

The BBC has broken it's silence after Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima announced that he has stepped down from the popular show.

In a statement to the Mirror, the corporation said if issues were raised they would be taken 'seriously' and 'swift action' would follow.

It comes after Graziano confirmed in a statement to fans that he was stepping down from his role as one of the professional dancers on the series - despite being confirmed on the line-up just weeks ago.

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing crisis as star 'dropped' amid misconduct claims

A BBC Spokesperson today told the Mirror: “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.”

Earlier on Saturday, Graziano took to Instagram to confirm reports that he has left the show.

In a statement he said: "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. While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it's only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasn't allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation."

He went on: "There's more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future."

Graziano joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2018