Strictly Come Dancing professional Michelle Tsiakkas has confirmed she will not return for the upcoming series, becoming the latest dancer to leave the BBC show. The 30-year-old, who joined in 2022 and was partnered with Jamie Borthwick in 2024, announced the news on Instagram, saying she had been axed from the line-up.
In her statement, Tsiakkas said: 'I won't be returning to Strictly this year. This has been an emotional time for me because Strictly has been a big part of my life... I hoped to have more time.' She also revealed she has pulled out of the professional tour in May, explaining: 'I know that right now I wouldn't have been able to give you my very best.'
The dancer is one of several professionals leaving, including Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer and Nadiya Bychkova, with reports that Neil Jones and Gorka Marquez will also depart. The BBC has yet to confirm the full line-up for the new series, which will also feature new hosts replacing Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Tsiakkas previously told The Sun she was shocked by the decision: 'I didn't see it coming. I felt my story was unfinished. It was very tough. I was heartbroken.' She added: 'I am realising there is a whole world outside of Strictly and I am trying to get excited about new opportunities.'
Fellow dancers offered support, with Balvinder Sopal writing: 'You are such a beautiful dancer and human... Doors will open.' Amy Dowden and Vito Coppola also sent messages of encouragement. Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
