Nadiya Bychkova, the former Strictly Come Dancing professional who was axed in March, has returned to the show as part of It Takes Two's All Star panel on Friday (October 2).
Bychkova left Strictly in March after nine years on the programme as part of a significant BBC restructure. An announcement on Strictly's official Instagram account thanked her for her contribution, saying she brought "elegance, artistry, and unwavering dedication to the ballroom" and that she "will always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family."
Fan Reaction to Her Return
She appeared alongside former celebrity contestants Jay McGuiness and Kimberley Walsh, discussing this weekend's Movie Week routines with presenter Ellie Taylor. Viewers expressed delight at seeing her back on screen.
One person posted on X: "Lovely to see the talented, dignified Nadiya on @bbcstrictly #ittakestwo. Whoever decided to 'refresh' her out of the pro line-up wants kicking with very spangly pointed shoes." Another commented: "Nadiya Bychkova I've missed you diva." A third viewer remarked: "So good to have Nadiya back."
Her Advice and Future Plans
Offering her insight on It Takes Two, Bychkova explained: "I think on [the] Friday, it's really important to get there and make sure [the celebs are] comfortable, as comfortable as you can get on Friday in that ballroom. But make sure the steps are in, the understanding of the routine is there and slowly getting into the spirit of the Movie Week."
Bychkova was not the only professional dancer to depart the show earlier this year, with Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas also making their exits. In a statement posted on Instagram, Bychkova previously said: "After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving." She added: "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."
Strictly Come Dancing and Strictly: It Takes Two are both available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
