Strictly Come Dancing is set for a major shake-up in 2026, with reports that four professional dancers will not return. Fans were shocked by the news, which follows the exit of long-term presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in the last series.
Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have reportedly left the show, while Nadiya Bychkova received word on Friday that she would not return as a full-time pro. According to insiders, the news left Bychkova “distraught” after years of dedication to the show.
The 36-year-old Ukrainian dancer joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. She has competed with celebrities such as Davood Khadami, Dan Walker, and Chris Robshaw. Bychkova’s height often paired her with the tallest male contestants, and she has never reached the final.
Despite the setback, Bychkova posted a video over the weekend celebrating International Women’s Day. She danced beside a swimming pool, writing, “Celebrating women today and every day. The strength, joy, resilience, and the beautiful way we lift each other up. And sometimes… a little dance along the way.”
Márquez joined Strictly in 2016 and reached the final twice with Alexandra Burke and Helen Skelton. He met his fiancée, presenter Gemma Atkinson, during the 2017 series. Mushtuk, a Russian dancer, joined in 2018 and competed on four series, while Tsiakkas, from Cyprus, joined in 2022 and appeared on one series.
Although none of the three will have celebrity partners in 2026, all will participate in the Strictly: The Professionals tour starting in late April. Bychkova competed with Chris Robshaw last year, exiting as the third couple eliminated.
Fans of Strictly Come Dancing have expressed concern about the sudden departure of four beloved professionals. The BBC has yet to confirm the full cast for the upcoming series, but promises an official announcement soon.
As speculation grows, audiences are curious about the new lineup of pros and potential celebrity pairings. With these changes, the 2026 series promises a fresh approach while maintaining the show’s signature excitement and energy.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to capture attention, proving that even with cast changes, the series remains one of the UK’s most-watched entertainment programmes.
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