Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola declares 'love' for Graziano Di Prima after BBC axe

Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola took to his Instagram Stories to share his reunion with axed dancer Graziano Di Prima

Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola shared his love and support for pal Graziano Di Prima - who was axed from the BBC dance competition.

Italian dancer Graziano was axed from Strictly during the summer during the BBC's investigation into the conduct of professional dancers on the show. The dance professional enjoyed a glittering career on the BBC's long-running dance competition - featuring on the line-up from 2018.

But earlier this year, the sparkle was washed off to uncover an abusive underside - as Graziano was forced to admit he had kicked his 2023 celebrity partner Zara McDermott while they were working together on Strictly in 2023 and he then proceeded to drop out of the show. Last month, he returned to social media for the first time since July after a "period of reflection" and told followers he felt "stronger than ever".

And now, he caught up with his friend and Strictly dancer Vito over a cup of coffee. Vito took to his Instagram Stories to share a picture of the two sitting at a cafe enjoying hot chocolate in the chilly December weather. They both wrapped up warm and held their cups together as they smiled for the camera.

Vito wrote: "Amico mio ti voglio bene', which translates to "My friend I love you." Soon after the news of his exit from the dance competition, despite being announced as one of the returning professional dancers, Graziano told his followers on Instagram: "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. 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 and his wife Giada went back to Italy amid the accusations against him. However, he was seen back in the UK at the beginning of the month and appeared to be in good spirits as they made their way to a dance studio. Graziano and Giada smiled for paps as they linked arms and clasped coffee cups and water bottles.

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.