Graeme Swann
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Graeme Swann says he’s cleared the air with Ashley Roberts after exit drama

Ex cricketer reckons Pussycat Doll knew he wasn't having a go at her

Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Graeme Swann has spoken with Ashley Roberts to ensure there is no lingering bad feeling between them, according to a report.

Metro claims there is no hostility between the two celebrities after a comment made by Graeme following his elimination from the BBC show was taken as a ‘dig’ against his dance off rival.

The ex cricketer denied “tiresome” claims he took a swipe at the Pussycat Dolls star shortly after he became the ninth famous face to leave this year’s series.

The 39-year-old said about his departure: “Secretly I’ve had 25 years of ballroom experience but I kept that to myself! No, I was a novice coming into this.”

ashley roberts strictly come dancing
Ashley was plunged into the dance off against Graeme, despite her performing experience (Credit: BBC)

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But Graeme has since repeatedly insisted his remarks were a joke, rather than pointed barbs aimed at longtime performer Ashley, partnered with Pasha Kovalev.

And now he has clarified there is no ongoing beef after suggesting Ashley already understood he was not slamming her vast experience as a dancer.

Reflecting on his statement, Graeme told Metro: “I rubbished that, I said don’t read the title or headlines. I didn’t say anything to anyone, it was a joke.”

Seemingly establishing a quiet word has been had, the dad of three added: “Yeah absolutely, but she realised it wasn’t [a swipe] as well.

Graeme’s popularity soared as threw himself into the dance routines (Credit: BBC)

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“Unfortunately, people like to sell papers and make up headlines. It’s the way of the world, if only people were happy instead of trying to pick fights.

“There certainly isn’t any animosity between me and anyone.”

He previously dismissed the claims by emphasising how much he had enjoyed his overachieving stint on the show.

Graeme Swann and Oti Mabuse
Graeme had been partnered with Oti Mabuse (Credit: BBC)

“I love everything about the show and everyone on it,” tweeted the popular sports star.

“My glorious adventure came to a natural happy ending and I have no bitterness in any way shape or form.”

Are you convinced? And even if Graeme didn’t mean his words to be interpreted that way, does he have a point anyway?

Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think of this story.


Robert Leigh
Freelance writer

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