Strictly Come Dancing professional Nikita Kuzmin has announced the death of his grandfather. The Ukrainian-born dancer shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, posting a series of photographs alongside the man he affectionately called the 'quickest grandad in town'.
In an emotional tribute, Kuzmin wrote: 'Looking at these pictures my heart is beating so fast and I'm not sure what to write or how to even begin expressing how much I love you. Just memories of when I thought you're the fastest walker in the world and how when I was a teenager, I was proud of speeding past you, but you still were the quickest grandad in town.' He added: 'But specially how much you always took care of us, no matter what, always there.' The post concluded with 'I love you' written in Russian.
The post, which has received over 7,000 likes, was flooded with messages of condolence. Former EastEnders actress Tamzin Outhwaite wrote: 'Love this tribute Nikita. Sad for you darling but you are so loved.' Tasha Ghouri and Strictly's Nancy Xu also shared heart emojis. Fans expressed their sympathy, with one saying: 'I'm so sorry, thinking of you and all the family. He seems like a very special man who was and is without a doubt so very proud of you.'
The sad news comes after Kuzmin confirmed he will return to Strictly for the 2026 series. The BBC recently announced the judging panel and professional dancers for the forthcoming series, with several new professionals set to join.
