Strictly Come Dancing Professional Withdraws from Live Tour
In a surprising development, a Strictly Come Dancing star has left the upcoming live tour just days after speculation emerged about her potential removal from the BBC series. Michelle Tsiakkas, aged 30, will no longer participate in the Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour, which is scheduled to commence in April.
Official Announcement and Tour Adjustments
The official Instagram account for the tour confirmed the news, stating: "Michelle Tsiakkas has decided not to take part in Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour. We are naturally disappointed but respect her decision and wish her every success for the future." The post further indicated that rehearsals will proceed with the remaining cast, including Julian, Vito, Neil, Gorka, Lauren, Jowita, Luba, Alexis, Kai, and Nancy.
This departure follows widespread rumors that Tsiakkas, along with fellow professional dancers Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Nadiya Bychkova, has been axed from the television program. The situation has sparked concerns among the Strictly Come Dancing community, with many questioning the stability of the professional lineup.
Nadiya Bychkova's Reported Exit and Emotional Impact
Earlier this month, reports surfaced that Nadiya Bychkova, a 36-year-old Ukrainian ballroom specialist, has been informed she will not return as a full-time professional on the BBC show. Bychkova, who joined the Strictly Come Dancing team nearly ten years ago, has partnered with celebrities such as broadcaster Dan Walker and singer Lee Ryan but never advanced to the final round.
According to insiders, Bychkova received the news during a meeting with executives on Friday and has been left heartbroken by the decision. A source revealed to The Sun: "Nadiya is distraught. The news came as such a huge shock as Nadiya's life was Strictly and to find out she's not been invited back as full time pro has really broken her heart."
The source added, "No one was expecting producers to chop so many professionals, especially someone like Nadiya, who's shown so much dedication to the show over the years. There's a super weird feeling among the rest of the pros now, they're all wondering if they're safe and everyone's nervous." This sentiment highlights the uncertainty and anxiety permeating the Strictly Come Dancing professional ranks amid what appears to be a significant behind-the-scenes restructuring.
