Nadiya Bychkova, the Ukrainian dancer recently axed from Strictly Come Dancing's professional lineup, has been spotted enjoying a champagne-fuelled getaway in Fuerteventura, just weeks after her departure from the glitzy BBC series. The 36-year-old, who starred on the show for nine years, shared a fun Instagram clip with her nine-year-old daughter Mila and friends, dancing and miming to Natasha Bedingfield's hit song Unwritten.
A Playful Holiday Moment
In the clip, Nadiya looked sensational in a fluffy white dressing gown, showcasing her long toned legs while using a bottle of bubbly as a microphone. Her daughter Mila and friends served as perfect backup dancers, with one pal even appearing with a lamp played like a trombone, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere of their sun-soaked vacation.
Cryptic Message Hints at Future Plans
The former Strictly star teased her future in a cryptic post referencing the song's lyrics, writing: 'Proof that blank pages don’t stay blank for long'. This comes amid reports that BBC bosses are keen to keep her within the Strictly family, potentially in a choreography role behind the scenes.
Strictly Shake-up Leaves Fans Stunned
BBC fans have been left reeling in recent weeks as favourites including Nadiya, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez have all been given the boot from the professional lineup. The shake-up marks one of the most significant changes to the show's roster in recent memory.
Nadiya's Evolving Role on the Show
Last week, Nadiya hinted at her 'new position' in a statement, revealing her role on the hit show is 'evolving' after nine years. She wrote: 'After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.' She expressed gratitude for the support she's received and reflected on her growth both professionally and personally during her time on the programme.
'I joined the show as an athlete and a double world champion,' she continued. 'Along the way I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively. Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for.'
Looking Forward to New Opportunities
Nadiya revealed she is 'excited' to still be part of the 'Strictly world for many years to come' but in a new way that she is currently exploring. 'This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore,' she stated.
'I’ve changed a lot since I first stepped onto that dance floor, not just as a performer, but as a person and I can honestly say I’ve never felt more like myself. I’m excited to have time to focus on new projects, and to spend more precious time with my beautiful daughter. Life feels full of possibilities.'
BBC Keeps Nadiya in the Family
Since releasing her statement, it has been reported that BBC bosses felt it would be a 'real loss' to lose her from the Strictly family altogether. A source told The Sun: 'Nadiya is so recognisable with viewers and bosses felt it would be a real loss to lose her from the Strictly family altogether. After a few conversations, they offered her a choreography role which she is very open to.'
The source added: 'Obviously, she is sad to no longer be dancing but recognises she will have great scope for more lucrative commercial opportunities now, and can explore exciting new projects.' Daily Mail has contacted both the BBC and Nadiya's representative for comment on these developments.
