CONCERNS have been raised over Anton Du Beke’s promotion to judge despite him previously calling celeb Laila Rouass a “P***”.

Social media users this week dug up Anton’s 2009 comment — made  in response to Laila having a spray tan — and asked why he wasn’t sacked.

Fans have raised concerns over Anton's promotion after his 2009 comments
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Fans have raised concerns over Anton’s promotion after his 2009 commentsCredit: Gary Stone

He called his former partner Laila a 'p***'
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He called his former partner Laila a ‘p***’Credit: PA Wire

Anton is now a judge on the show
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Anton is now a judge on the showCredit: BBC
Laila stormed out of at the time. Anton, 58, later apologised. BBC bosses stood by him and in 2021  made him a  £200,000-a-year judge.

Actress Laila — dating snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan — has since  been in touch with complainants about her time on the show.

She has been inundated with support, and is said to be considering legal action.

One source said: “Anton has a very 1970s attitude  and can  be abrasive.

“The lines are becoming increasingly blurred  as to what is acceptable or not, and of course, some people have found him  fine to work with.

“But there were  murmurings of discontent when he was a dancer. Yet the BBC promoted him. It is all quite strange.”

A source close to Anton said: “His  comment was dealt with at the time and he wants to move on.”

Graziano Di Prima had his Strictly contract terminated on Monday following allegations he “hit, spat at and kicked” Zara McDermott during rehearsals last year.

The allegations against Graziano came to light during the inquiry into claims that Giovanni bullied his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington on the last series – which he has strenuously denied.

Graziano broke his silence moments after his exit was announced and spoke of his “deep regret” over the damning claims.

Strictly’s Katya Jones says ‘I can’t speak for other dancers’ as she opens up on training room tactics amid complaints scandal

Graziano Di Prima – Strictly statement in FULL

GRAZIANO Di Prima has addressed his Strictly Come Dancing sacking with a statement on social media – see the details below.

In a statement shared to his Instagram page Graziano wrote: “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.”

He continued: “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.

“I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.”

He concluded the post: “I also want to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally. When the time is right, I will share my story.”