Zara McDermott shares smiling update after bombshell Graziano Di Prima statement over Strictly Come Dancing

Zara McDermott was seen all smiles as she offered an update from 'doing what she loves' after issuing a bombshell statement over her time on Strictly Come Dancing.

The documentary maker broke her silence earlier this week after dance partner Graziano Di Prima was axed from the dance show following reports of allegations relating to his conduct while partnered with her in the BBC One dance contest last year.

The Italian dancer said he "deeply regrets" the events that have led to his exit from Strictly as he confirmed his departure in a statement. He acknowledged that his "intense passion and determination to win might have affected" his training regime while competing in the dance competition.

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A BBC spokesperson 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 robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate."

But days later and Zara spoke out for the first time. She issued a statement via her Instagram Story which read: "I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports. Strictly is one of the most magical shows on TV and one that I dreamt of being on since I was a little girl.

"When I was invited to be a contestant on the show it really was a childhood dream come true. I fully understood the level of commitment and hard work that Strictly was going to be