Nadiya Bychkova confirmed yesterday that she is stepping away from Strictly Come Dancing after nine years as a professional dancer on the BBC programme.
The 36-year-old Ukrainian performer, who first appeared on the show in 2017, announced her departure via Instagram on Wednesday, describing her time on Strictly as "evolving" rather than ending.
Her exit comes just days after Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional on the series, revealed she was leaving after 14 years.
The back-to-back departures follow widespread reports of significant changes to the professional dancer roster ahead of the 2026 series.
Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas have all reportedly been dropped as BBC executives seek to introduce fresh faces to the line-up.
According to reports, BBC bosses have moved quickly to retain Ms Bychkova's talents in a different capacity, offering her a position as a choreographer working behind the scenes.
A source told The Sun: "Nadiya is so recognisable with viewers, and bosses felt it would be a real loss to lose her from the Strictly family altogether. After a few conversations, they offered her a choreography role which she is very open to."
The insider added that while Ms Bychkova is disappointed to no longer be performing, she recognises the move opens doors for more profitable commercial ventures and the chance to pursue other creative projects.
The pro-dancer has finally addressed the rumours of her axing
|The double world champion had previously hinted at staying connected to the programme, writing in her statement that she looked forward to remaining part of the Strictly world "in ways I am beginning to explore."
Throughout her Instagram statement, Ms Bychkova reflected on the personal transformation she experienced during her Strictly tenure.
"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," she wrote.
The dancer expressed that the programme enabled her to uncover new aspects of herself and develop fresh skills, describing the experience as one she would always treasure.
Ms Bychkova's last series saw her dance with Mr Robshaw and were eliminated during week 4
|BBC
"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," Ms Bychkova added.
Looking to the future, she expressed enthusiasm about dedicating time to fresh ventures and spending precious moments with her daughter.
The BBC issued a statement praising Ms Bychkova's contribution to the programme, describing her as someone who brought "elegance, artistry, and unwavering dedication to the ballroom" throughout her nine-year tenure.
The star has been open about how she feels no longer being part of the show
|The corporation highlighted her abilities both as a performer and teacher, stating she "embodies the very best of what Strictly stands for."
Fellow dancers rallied around Ms Bychkova following her announcement, with departing host Tess Daly commenting: "Love you to bits. Beautiful inside and out."
Amy Dowden recalled the excitement of joining the show together, while Katya Jones praised her as a dancer who is "adored by any."
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The pair felt they didn't get a chance to show their true potential
|BBC
Speculation continues about further departures from the professional roster, with Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas all reportedly facing the axe as part of the ongoing shake-up.
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