Katya Jones Reportedly Set to Sign New Strictly Come Dancing Contract
Katya Jones is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract with Strictly Come Dancing as she celebrates her tenth anniversary on the BBC competition. This development comes amid widespread rumours of a significant shakeup among the show's professional dancers, with several high-profile names facing the axe.
BBC Bosses 'Desperate' to Keep Popular Dancer
Despite speculation that numerous professional dancers could lose their positions on the long-running programme, sources indicate that BBC executives were 'desperate' to retain the Russian-born dancer. Insiders suggest that producers recognise her immense popularity with viewers and value her considerable talents.
"She is not leaving, Katya is remaining on Strictly, the bosses think she's a legend," a source told Mail Online. "They know how much viewers love her and they are also in awe of her choreography talents."
Multiple Professional Dancers Face Axe
The news of Katya's likely contract renewal contrasts sharply with reports that several other professional dancers have been cut from the upcoming series. Karen Hauer, who has served as a professional on the show since 2012, has reportedly been axed. The 43-year-old dancer has partnered with numerous celebrities including comedienne Jayde Adams, Chris Ramsey, and most recently Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.
Hauer joins a growing list of professionals who have been removed from this year's lineup, including Nadiya Bychkova and Gorka Marquez. Over the weekend, it also emerged that Michelle Tsiakkas and Luba Mushtuk have been cut from the programme.
Producers Adopt 'Out with the Old' Approach
Sources suggest that producers are implementing significant changes to refresh the professional lineup. One insider compared the approach to running a football team, explaining that even successful teams regularly refresh their squads to maintain peak performance.
"It's been some time since there was a 'churn' in the pro line-up, but they do happen every few years and there hasn't been a big one in some time," a source told The Sun. "The way producers look at it is a little like running a football team: even after Man City win the league they still change their team around and bring in fresh blood constantly, to stay at the top of their game."
Ageism Concerns Raised Over Dancer Axings
Concerns about ageism have emerged following Nadiya Bychkova's reported departure from the show. Sources claim that the 36-year-old dancer's axing reflects an "out with the old, in with the new" approach, with her age potentially playing a role in the decision.
"Her axing smacks of ageism," a source claimed. "They're clearing all the old crew out to make way for new dancers." The source added that Bychkova, who remains hugely popular with fans, was "devastated" by the news and "can't understand why she won't be back."
Major Changes for Long-Running Competition
These professional dancer changes represent just part of the significant transformation occurring within Strictly Come Dancing. The programme is already adapting to the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their exit from the BBC in a shock statement last year.
In their joint statement confirming their departure, the presenters described hosting the show as an "absolute dream" and expressed their gratitude to the BBC and everyone involved with the production.
Gorka Marquez, 35, did not appear with a partner in last year's series due to filming commitments with the Spanish version of the show, Bailando Con Las Estrellas. Both Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, were also not partnered with celebrities during the previous series.
The Mirror has contacted both the BBC and Katya Jones for comment regarding these developments.
