TV bosses are "struggling" with Strictly Come Dancing. The scandal-hit programme is in the spotlight this week after the axing of professional dancer Graziano Di Prima. He's accused of abusing former co-star Zara McDermott during grueling training sessions throughout filming, something he admitted he "deeply regrets".
Giovanni Pernice also quit the show after complaints from Amanda Abbington who was diagnosed with mild post-traumatic stress disorder after shooting her series. Now execs say they're finding it hard to find female celebrities wanting to take part in the show. "Usually it is the women who are more keen," a TV source told MailOnline.
"Not only is it an opportunity to get dressed up but appearing on Strictly is also much more fortuitous for females' careers than men's." The insider continued: "But word has got around that it isn’t exactly a walk in the park, so getting them has a been a lot more challenging. "There have been many conversations about how this is dealt with but the immediate problem is this year’s cast.
.. There has been lots of swearing and frustration.
" Zara says she was too "frightened" to speak up about her experience on Strictly with Graziano. She broke her silence yesterday after reports emerged alleging inappropriate behaviour by the 30-year-old Italian dancer towards her before his sudden departure. Following his unexpected exit, Graziano expressed his deep regret over the events leading to his departure on Instagram and promised to share .