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Nadiya Bychkova Leaves Strictly to Pursue Pantomime, Choreography and TV Work

The departure follows a presenter and professional reshuffle, pointing to her move into theatre and other creative roles.

Overview

  • Nadiya Bychkova confirmed she left Strictly Come Dancing after nine years when she announced her exit in March 2026 and has said she feels ready for a new chapter.
  • She told Betway that the show is an "intense environment" but stressed there is a strong backstage family and that she is "fine" with the decision to step away.
  • Bychkova has concrete plans for the coming months, including playing Tinkerbell in a Peter Pan pantomime, choreographing and producing shows, and a collaboration with a UK orchestra to fuse music and dance.
  • She also reported that she made her big‑screen debut in the film 10 Dance and has TV projects in development, though details of those programs remain undisclosed.
  • The move comes as Strictly completes a wider shake‑up of professionals and hosts and names several 2026 celebrity contestants, a change that could prompt more former pros to shift into off‑screen creative roles or occasional returns for choreography work.