Another professional dancer has announced they are leaving Strictly Come Dancing – weeks after rumours of a ‘bloodbath’ to the line-up this year.
Nadiya Bychkova confirmed the news in a statement on her Instagram today, days after Karen Hauer announced she was leaving the series after 14 years. In the statement Nadiya, who joined the series in 2017, explained her Strictly stint is “evolving”. As she shared a photo of herself on the Strictly dance floor, she penned: “After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.”
The news comes after reports of a bloodbath amongst the Strictly professional dancers ahead of the next series. Karen and Nadiya are two of the number of stars rumoured to have been axed by BBC bosses. Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have all been said to have been axed in a bid for bosses to get “fresh faces” in the professional line-up.
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CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy)
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Nadiya, who has been paired with Davood Ghadami, Lee Ryan, David James, Dan Walker, Matt Goss, Tom Dean – and most recently, Chris Robshaw in 2025 – gushed: “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.
“I also want to take a moment to appreciate all those who have helped me along the way: my partners, my fellow professionals, the judges and brilliant people behind the scenes,” Nadiya wrote. “I joined the show as an athlete and a double world champion. Along the way I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively.”
Speaking about her time on the BBC show, the dancer 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,” Nadiya insisted. “I’ve changed a lot since I first stepped onto that dance floor, not just as a performer, but as a person and I can honestly say I’ve never felt more like myself.”
Looking ahead Nadiya continued: “I’m excited to have time to focus on new projects, and to spend more precious time with my beautiful daughter. Life feels full of possibilities.” She said: “I danced before Strictly, I loved dancing on the show and I plan to keep dancing for many years to come. Thank you for all the love and support along the way,” before signing the message off with a white heart emoji.
The BBC also released a statement in the wake of Nadiya’s announcement. It read: “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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