Strictly Come Dancing pro Graziano Di Prima has insisted that the participants in the show's rumoured male same-sex pairing do not have to be gay.
Having introduced a female pairing for the first time last year, the flagship BBC entertainment series is expected to follow up with an all-male couple this year.
Di Prima, who is straight, has previously danced with fellow male pro Johannes Radebe during a routine on the show and is keen to put himself forward for the new male partnership.
Asked if it was important that the two dancers are gay, Di Prima told The Sun: "No. Being partnered in a same-sex couple for me would make sense.
"Dancing is for everyone. Anyone can dance. If they're going to give me a same-sex partner, I'm more than open and happy to start this process.
"Obviously the couple is made up of two people and as a pro you need to make sure to give the best of your knowledge and make them feel comfortable."
The new series of Strictly is due to begin on BBC One in late September.
Neil Wilkes
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