Strictly star Nadiya Bychkova confirms exit from BBC collection amid ongoing overhaul: ‘This isn’t the top’
Nadiya Bychkova has confirmed her departure from Strictly Come Dancing after nine years, amid an ongoing shake-up backstage on the BBC series.
In the wake of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s joint departure from the dance competition, reports have emerged claiming that a number of the show’s long-standing professional dancers will not be returning for the 2026 series.
Just days after Karen Hauer, the show’s longest-running female pro, confirmed her exit, Ukrainian dancer Nadiya Bychkova, 36, confirmed that she was the latest pro to leave Strictly.
In a post shared on Instagram on Wednesday (25 March), Bychkova, whose previous celebrity dance partners included Dan Walker and Davood Ghadami, wrote: “After nine wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.
“There is something truly special about being part of a programme that plays such a big part in so many people’s lives, and I want to thank all those who have sent beautiful messages over the last few weeks and those who have voted, shouted, supported, celebrated and cheered during every series,” she continued.
“Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for. This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore.”
The news was confirmed by the BBC, who shared: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Nadiya Bychkova for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing. Since joining the show nine years ago, Nadiya has brought elegance, artistry and unwavering dedication to the ballroom, and she will always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family.
“Over the years, Nadiya has delivered countless memorable performances, showcasing not only her exceptional talents as a dancer and choreographer but also her brilliance as a teacher to all her celebrity partners. A consummate professional, Nadiya embodies the very best of what Strictly stands for. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to the show and wish her every success for the future.”
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Bychkova was supported by stars of Strictly Come Dancing, both past and present, with departing host Tess Daly writing: “Love you to bits. Beautiful inside and out.”
“Love you, so many beautiful memories. I’ll never forget the excitement and nerves joining together!” commented Amy Dowden, while Hauer added: “Such a classical dancer who I love to watch perform [heart emoji] sending all the love beautiful.”
Ballroom and Latin dance champion Bychkova joined the cast of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, where she was partnered with stars including Matt Goss and David James.
Due to her height of 5ft 8in, Bychkova was often partnered with the tallest male dancers. Her closest shot at the Glitterball trophy came in 2021, when she came in fifth place with former BBC Breakfast host Dan Walker. In her final series, she was paired with rugby player Chris Robshaw, where they were the third couple to leave the competition.
Outside of Strictly, Bychkova has a nine-year-old daughter called Mila who she often posts dancing videos with. She previously dated fellow pro dancer Kai Widdrington.
Bychkova’s departure comes just days after Hauer, another fan favourite pro, confirmed her exit from the show. The Venezuelan–American dancer, 43, broke down in tears as she shared the news of her departure with fans, but said that it was the “right time” for her to end her time on Strictly.
Other reports have suggested that Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas have also been cut from the cast of professional dancers, with Tsiakkas quitting the pro dancer tour affiliated with the show, seemingly in response.
