Eamonn Holmes warns of 'bigger headlines to come' on Strictly
Eamonn Holmes addressed the ongoing scandal surrounding the conduct of Strictly Come Dancing professionals today as he alluded to further reports of exploitation set to be published.
In the past month, the BBC's dance contest has seen two professional dancers be removed from the show following claims of physical and verbal abuse.
Eamonn warned: "There are bigger headlines to come on this story," As reports have swirled that a third dancer could be named for misconduct.
Graziano Di Prima is the latest dancer to be axed from the programme after the BBC launched an investigation into claims he kicked and "spat" at his partner Zara McDermott.
In a statement Zara said on her social media she "wrestled with the fear of opening up" about her experiences.
"I was scared about public backlash, I was scared about my future, I was scared of victim shaming," she said.
But she said she had recently "gained the strength to face these fears" and speak about her experiences to BBC managers.
"I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports," she posted on her Instagram stories on Tuesday.
She said she "fully understood the level of commitment and hard work that Strictly was going to be and I dedicated everything to it".
"I am a resilient person and I was fully prepared to put in whatever it took," she added.
Meanwhile, in a statement on Saturday, Graziano expressed his regret over his actions and blamed it on his "intense passion".
Graziano typed: "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. 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," he finished.
In May Giovanni left Strictly following reports his former celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington had requested rehearsal footage from her time on the show, while allegedly seeking legal advice.
The Sherlock star revealed later the same month that she had been diagnosed with mild PTSD after her time on the show.
She also reportedly met with two of Giovanni's former dance partners, Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh and former Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore, for a “tearful summit” during which the trio apparently discussed their “difficult experiences".
The pro dancer then posted a lengthy statement on his Instagram account, addressing speculation over his teaching style.
“I reject any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour, and I look forward to clearing my name,” he wrote.
“Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive. No one is more ambitious for their dance partners than me.”
