Overview
- Multiple outlets reported that four professionals — Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas and Nadiya Bychkova — have been told they will not return for the 2026 series.
- Follow‑up tabloid reports on Monday said Neil Jones and Nancy Xu would not receive full‑time deals or celebrity partners, though they could still appear in group routines.
- The BBC said only that plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course and has not verified any changes to the professional line‑up.
- Unnamed insiders cited by tabloids claim producers want a fresh start with new faces following recent controversies and the departure of long‑time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
- Coverage notes unease among remaining pros and mixed fan reaction, with some commentary alleging ageism and others pointing out that several named dancers were unpartnered in 2025.