Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova has candidly discussed the challenges of navigating the dating world following her breakup with fellow dancer Kai Widdrington. The 36-year-old star, who ended her two-year relationship with Kai in 2024, emphasised that she is taking a slow and deliberate approach to finding love, prioritising authentic connections over digital encounters.
Dating in the Modern Era: A Personal Struggle
In a recent interview, Nadiya expressed her reservations about contemporary dating practices, particularly online platforms. 'In general, nowadays it's difficult to date, and it takes time to get to know a person,' she explained. 'It doesn't matter if you're on TV or not, whether it's a friendship, a business partner or a relationship or whatever it may be, I'm just taking things slow.' She firmly ruled out using dating apps, stating, 'I don't think they are for me.'
Focus on Family and Future Aspirations
The Ukrainian performer, who shares a nine-year-old daughter named Mila with her former fiancé, Slovenian footballer Matija Škarabot, revealed that she remains open to expanding her family in the future. Despite the complexities of balancing motherhood with her high-profile career, Nadiya maintains a positive outlook on personal relationships and her professional commitments in dance and theatre.
New Romance Rumours with Stage Actor Ian McIntosh
While Nadiya publicly describes dating as challenging, reports suggest she has been growing closer to Les Miserables stage actor Ian McIntosh since last year. The pair reportedly met in March and have since been spotted together at several high-profile events, sparking speculation about a budding romance.
Public Appearances Fuel Speculation
Nadiya and Ian attended the Les Miserables 40th Anniversary Gala in London together in October, where they posed intimately on the red carpet with Ian's arm around her waist. More recently, they arrived arm-in-arm at the Ballet Icons Gala 20th Anniversary at the London Coliseum, further fuelling rumours. Nadiya added to the intrigue by sharing on social media that she was 'enjoying Valentine's weekend with good company.'
After the gala, the couple was seen heading to an after-party at The Savoy Hotel. Ian, known for his roles in Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar, posted a snap from the event on Instagram with the caption, 'What a glorious night.' The pair have also been photographed enjoying cosy coffee dates in London, with a source noting, 'Nadiya and Ian have a couple of mutual friends and were introduced, they hit it off immediately.'
Shared Interests and Mutual Happiness
The insider elaborated, 'They have attended a couple of red carpet events together and thought people might start noticing their relationship sooner. They have loads in common and just have a lot of fun together, it is lovely to see. Everyone is very happy for them.' Ian, an Olivier Award nominee for his role in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Nadiya, who has performed in Les Misérables, share a deep appreciation for the arts, which appears to strengthen their bond.
Moving On: Both Parties Find New Beginnings
As Nadiya explores this potential new relationship, her ex-partner Kai Widdrington has also moved on. He recently went Instagram official with his new girlfriend, Chloe Wells, approximately nine months after his split from Nadiya. This development marks a fresh chapter for both dancers as they navigate life post-breakup in the public eye.
Nadiya's reflections highlight the universal difficulties of modern dating, even for celebrities, while her rumoured connection with Ian McIntosh suggests a promising turn in her personal life. Representatives for both Nadiya and Ian were contacted for comment regarding the relationship rumours, but no official statements have been released.
