Strictly Come Dancing Star Nadiya Bychkova 'Distraught' After Being Axed in Show's Biggest Shakeup
In a dramatic overhaul ahead of the 2026 series, Strictly Come Dancing has reportedly axed fan-favourite professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, leaving her 'distraught' and heartbroken. The shakeup, described as the show's biggest to date, also sees long-standing professionals Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and relative newcomer Michelle Tsiakkas dropped from the lineup, sparking widespread speculation and concern among fans and cast members alike.
Nadiya Bychkova's Emotional Departure
Nadiya Bychkova, 36, who joined the Strictly family in 2017 alongside Amy Dowden and Dianne Buswell, was informed by BBC bosses that she would not be returning as a full-time professional. A source close to the dancer revealed, 'The news came as such a huge shock, as Nadiya's life was Strictly, and to find out she's not been invited back has really broken her heart.' The source added that axing Nadiya is particularly surprising given her 'dedication to the show over the years,' having partnered with celebrities like Lee Ryan, Matt Goss, Tom Dean, and most recently Chris Robshaw in 2025.
Despite never reaching the final, Nadiya came closest in 2021 with Dan Walker, placing fifth. Fans have long championed her, claiming she has been 'wronged' by voting outcomes and advocating for her to be paired with a more experienced dancer. In past seasons, Nadiya has expressed devastation over early eliminations, such as when Olympian Tom Dean was voted out first in 2024, leading to cryptic social media posts where she stated she wasn't ready to discuss the results.
Wider Cast Cull and Professional Reactions
The axing extends beyond Nadiya, with insiders confirming that Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have also been dropped. This mass cull has created a 'super weird feeling' among the remaining professionals, who are now 'wondering if they're safe and everyone's nervous.' The move is part of a broader strategy by BBC bosses to 'bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era,' according to sources.
- Gorka Marquez: A Spanish choreographer with nearly a decade on the show, Gorka famously reached the final three times with partners like Maisie Smith and Helen Skelton. His absence in much of the 2025 series due to judging commitments on Strictly's Spanish version may have foreshadowed his departure.
- Luba Mushtuk: Having joined eight years ago, Luba has competed with stars like Adam Thomas but has been benched in recent seasons, making her axing less surprising to some observers.
- Michelle Tsiakkas: A relative newcomer since 2022, Michelle made it to week 10 in 2024 with EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, but her removal signals a clean sweep for fresh talent.
Future of Strictly Come Dancing
As the show undergoes this significant transformation, rumours continue to swirl about replacements for hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down last year. Potential candidates include Zoe Ball, Emma Willis, and Rylan Clark, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the 2026 series. A Strictly spokesperson stated, 'Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course,' while representatives for Nadiya Bychkova declined to comment.
This shakeup marks a pivotal moment for Strictly Come Dancing, as producers aim to revitalise the programme with new dynamics and faces, leaving fans and cast members alike awaiting further announcements with bated breath.
