Strictly Star Nadiya Bychkova Offers Insight On Show's Hosting Changes And Personal Future
Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova has exclusively shared her perspective on the upcoming changes to the BBC's flagship dance competition, following the departure of long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Speaking at the recent TV Choice Awards, Bychkova expressed confidence in the production team's decisions while candidly addressing her own potential absence from the next series.
Confidence In Producers' Host Selection
When questioned about who might fill the substantial shoes left by Daly and Winkleman, Bychkova demonstrated unwavering faith in the show's creators. "I'm sure the producers will make a great decision," she stated. "Many people would love to be in that position because it's such a fantastic show to host. I don't have a shortlist myself, too many names to list, so I'm looking forward to seeing who they choose."
The Ukrainian-born dancer, who joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, acknowledged the significant legacy left by the departing hosts. Daly had been with the programme since 2004, originally presenting alongside Bruce Forsyth, while Winkleman began hosting the spin-off It Takes Two before joining the main show in 2014. Both announced their decision to step down following the conclusion of the 2025 series in December.
Uncertainty About Personal Return To Strictly
In a revealing admission, Bychkova confirmed that she might not be returning to the Strictly ballroom for the upcoming season. "I hope so," she responded when asked about her future participation. "Who knows? We'll get the call later in the year." This uncertainty adds another layer of change to the beloved programme, which has already seen substantial presenter reshuffling.
Beyond her television commitments, Bychkova maintains a busy schedule that includes an upcoming summer tour. "Yes! Jukebox Idols, I'm really excited about it," she revealed. "We've been preparing for a while, and now it's full-on. I've been having meetings with our director and choreographer, and I'm co-creating the show, so there's a lot of my vision in it. The boys are amazing, and it'll be our first time together with The Overtones and Louis Smith. It's something different, not just a dance show, but a fusion of many different elements."
Family Life And Daughter's Talents
Away from the professional dance floor, Bychkova enjoys watching her nine-year-old daughter Mila develop her own artistic talents. "Mila, my daughter, is a little dancer herself," she shared. "TikTok is very popular in our household right now. I don't teach her to dance, she has her own dance teacher at school, but I enjoy being a mum and being on the sidelines, cheering for her."
The professional dancer finds particular joy in experiencing dance from a parental perspective. "It's interesting because I've spent my whole life on the dance floor, and I know the highs of winning and the lows of not getting there. Seeing it from the other side is a different but lovely perspective. She's brilliant."
Bychkova went further, praising her daughter's diverse abilities. "Mila is actually much more talented than I am, she sings beautifully, plays violin, and taught herself piano. She's got so many skills that could open other doors. Whatever she chooses to do, I'll support her."
As Strictly Come Dancing prepares for its next chapter with new presenting talent, Bychkova's comments highlight both the continuity of producer trust and the personal transitions affecting the show's familiar faces. Her dual perspective as a seasoned professional and supportive dance mum offers unique insight into the programme's evolving landscape.
