Nadiya Bychkova has officially been confirmed to be stepping away from her role on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.
After weeks of uncertainty, the BBC's official Instagram confirmed the professional's exit on Wednesday, bidding farewell to the Ukrainian dancer who first joined the show on the 15th series in 2017.
© CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray BurmistonTaking to Instagram, the BBC said: "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."
Nadiya's statement
Taking to Instagram, Nadiya acknowledged the nine "wonderful" years, and said: "This part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving."
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.
"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. 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."
Other Strictly exits
Nadiya's news marks the second official professional to step down after Karen Hauer, whose exit was announced earlier this March.
Karen announced the news in a video, which she began by saying: "Hey everyone, I've got something to tell you. It's a tough one, but here we go.
"After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I've decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I'm passionate about. Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being.
"I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners. Who have become close friends and people I admire so much."
She continued: "None of this would have been possible without the amazing fans. You've been there since day one when I just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into.
"I'm so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hairstyles. I'm gonna miss everyone who makes the show possible. From hair, makeup, wardrobe, the crew behind the cameras, lighting, production, and staging, the runners, Dave Arch, and the band, the singers, and the producers and welfare team who take such good care of us."
© CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray BurmistonKaren and Nadiya's Strictly exits come weeks after The Sun reported that five professionals were being removed from the 2026 line-up, including Nadiya, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas. At the time, the BBC told HELLO!: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course."
The pro dancer shake-up comes after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced last year that they would not be returning as co-hosts.
