Strictly Come Dancing 2026 tipped for even more professional dancer changes as another ‘dropped’ after 9 years

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Sources say Nadiya Bychkova won’t be returning as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, as the BBC show undergoes changes to its lineup.

Reports suggest that Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas won’t be returning for the next season of the show, as producers are looking to revamp the cast.

A source claimed to The Sun that the news came as a “huge shock” to the Ukrainian dancer.

Since 2017, Bychkova has been a professional partner on the show, dancing with celebrities including Dan Walker, Davood Ghadami, David James, and most recently, Chris Robshaw.

Following a report in The Sun, a BBC representative stated that details about Strictly Come Dancing in 2026 will be announced later.

TopMob has reached out to the BBC for further comment.

The change in plans arrives as viewers of Strictly Come Dancing eagerly anticipate finding out who will take over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed the popular BBC show last year.

So, the big question everyone’s asking is, who’s going to take over hosting duties? While nothing’s official yet, the rumor mill is working overtime! I’m hearing names like Mel Giedroyc, Emma Willis, and Zoe Ball being tossed around as potential replacements. It’s all speculation for now, but those are definitely some of the personalities people are hoping to see step up.

The latter has been part of the Strictly world before, having hosted It Takes Two for 10 years.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, the former host of ‘It Takes Two’ admitted they’d be interested in the job, but will continue to be a viewer no matter who takes over.

You know, it’s funny – everyone keeps bringing up the show with me, which is wild! Honestly, I’m still a little sad about Tess and Claud leaving, I really loved working with them. And from what I’m hearing, they’re considering everyone as potential replacements – it’s a total guessing game right now!

I really enjoy that show! It was fantastic working with Ian Waite, who’s become a close friend. It’s such a happy, energetic program, and people often underestimate how challenging live television is. The show is incredibly demanding, and anyone taking it on has a lot to live up to.

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One later this year.

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Authors

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to impactful documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she focused on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a journalism degree.

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2026-03-09 13:35