Strictly star risks angering BBC bosses with message to controversial axed pro
Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola shared a supportive message to his pal and former BBC dancer, Graziano Di Prima, on his birthday. The professional dancer was sacked by BBC bosses in the summer amid claims he "hit, spat at and kicked" his celebrity dance partner Zara McDermott.
Graziano, 31, fled the UK to return to his native Italy with his wife Giada, where it was reported he was working on a vineyard. However, Graziano recently made a comeback to the country. In December, he returned to Instagram for the first time since last July as he announced his return to dancing after a "period of reflection" and said that he felt "stronger than ever".
And now, on his birthday, his Strictly co-star and close friend Vito took to his Facebook page to send a supportive message to the axed dancer.
Vito wrote alongside a photo of the two at the beach: "Happy birthday to my dear friend, my brother. You are a fantastic human and that's why you are so much well-loved. Love and miss you so much."
He shared a similar message on his Instagram Stories, writing: "Happy birthday to this special human "Ti saro per sempre amico!" Love you so so much my brother and I miss you so so much!" The Italian translates to: "I will always be your friend!"
Earlier this year, Graziano revealed to fans he would be running a dance class in London and asked the to sign up. He said at the time: "Ciao everyone.
"I've finally got beautiful news. April 27, I will be in London at the Dance Attic teaching you two incredible classes.
"I cannot wait to see you all and most of all to dance with you all - we're going to have fun!"
Last year, Graziano's Strictly sparkle was washed off to uncover an alleged abusive underside. He was forced to admit he had kicked his celebrity partner Zara while they were working together on Strictly in 2023 and he then dropped out of the show in shame.
At the end of the year, Vito shared his unwavering support for the dancer following Graziano's dismissal from the long-running BBC programme.
Earlier in the evening, the two were seen enjoying a coffee together, with Vito sharing a heartfelt message on social media: "Amico mio ti voglio bene," which translates to "My friend, I love you."
The photo, posted on Graziano's Instagram originally, had a lengthy caption from Graziano himself. About his co-star, Grazian penned: "How wonderful it was to hug you again, my friend!
"Our friendship is stronger than anything, remember you're a special person, with a big heart!! Love you and wish you all the best in everything you do."
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