Strictly Come Dancing Reportedly Axes Three Professional Dancers for 2026 Series
The BBC has reportedly dropped three professional dancers from the upcoming 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, according to new reports. This significant shakeup comes as the embattled celebrity dance competition continues to undergo major changes following the departure of longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Which Dancers Are Leaving the Show?
The Sun newspaper reports that longtime professional dancers Gorka Márquez, 35, and Luba Mushtuk, 36, will not be appearing in the next season of the popular BBC programme. Additionally, newcomer Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, is also said to have departed the show.
A source told the publication: "Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era."
When approached for comment by The Independent, a BBC spokesperson said plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 would be confirmed "in due course." The Independent has also contacted representatives for Márquez, Mushtuk and Tsiakkas for comment.
Background of the Departing Dancers
Gorka Márquez joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2016 and has featured in three finals during his tenure. He met his partner, influencer and presenter Gemma Atkinson, on the show in 2017. Luba Mushtuk first appeared on Strictly eight years ago but has not been partnered with a celebrity contestant in recent seasons.
Michelle Tsiakkas joined the programme in 2022 alongside fellow newcomers Vito Coppola, Carlos Gu and Lauren Oakley. She teamed up with actor Jamie Borthwick, her first celebrity partner, in 2024; the pair were eliminated in week 10 of that competition.
Host Search Continues Amid Speculation
As the search for new hosts continues, Amanda Holden recently denied rumours that she might be in the running for the position, while also calling other prospective candidates "boring." Holden told MailOnline: "You see, I am already part of a big show, and I'll happily carry on watching Strictly from the comfort of my lounge."
Addressing the show's weekend broadcast schedule, she added: "I've got to remember that I have children and a husband." Holden has been married to Chris Hughes since 2008, and the couple have two daughters: Lexi, 19, and Hollie, 13.
While male presenters Bradley Walsh, Rylan and Roman Kemp are reportedly being considered for hosting roles, Holden is adamant that the BBC should hire two women to replace Daly and Winkleman. She has urged the corporation to "think outside the box" with their selection.
The reported departure of three professional dancers represents another significant change for Strictly Come Dancing as the programme seeks to reinvent itself following the exit of its iconic presenting duo. The BBC has yet to officially confirm the casting changes or announce replacement dancers for the 2026 series.
