Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed Nadiya Bychkova's exit after several dancers were reported to have been axed in what has been deemed a "mass cull" of professionals from the show.
It was previously reported the Ukrainian dancer had been removed from the Strictly professional lineup following a meeting with BBC executives, and bosses now seem to have officially announced her exit.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, BBC Strictly's official account shared a statement which 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."
Ms Bychkova herself also shared a post confirming her departure from the show on her own Instagram.
Confirming the rumoured news, she revealed she is stepping away from the BBC programme after nine years.
In her own statement, Ms Bychkova described the decision as an evolution of her journey with the beloved dancing competition.
She penned: "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.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Fans expressed disappointment at the news
|"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.
"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.
"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.
Nadiya Bychkova is now confirmed to have left BBC Strictly
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"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.
"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."
The announcement, which she characterised as somewhat unexpected, has already prompted an outpouring of support from fans.
The 36-year-old's exit marks the end of nearly a decade with the show, during which she became a familiar face to millions of viewers.
One fan fumed: "Absolutely ridiculous! Getting rid of all the most well-loved dancers whilst the show is in turmoil with searching for new presenters. Absolute madness.
"I fear this will all end very badly in a show none of us recognise anymore and we’ll switch off in our droves, which is the last thing any of us want."
Another wrote: "This is so sad she never really got a chance to show her full potential we will miss you Nadiya!"
"Another mistake letting her go. Strictly has lost the plot. Get a grip Strictly," a third complained.
"This is so sad. Strictly won't be the same without these amazing dancers," someone else agreed.
Another simply asked: "What the hell? Sumat going on?" (sic)
"What's happening? Reckon the plug will be pulled shortly," another predicted.
The news comes as recent reports have suggested that as well as Ms Bychkova, Spanish choreographer Gorka Marquez, 35, Russian dancer Luba Mushtuk, 36 and Cypriot performer Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, have also allegedly been dropped from the lineup.