Strictly Come Dancing Faces Major Overhaul as Three Professional Dancers Axed
Strictly Come Dancing is undergoing a significant shake-up as three professional dancers have been dropped from the lineup ahead of the 2026 series. This move comes as show bosses seek to refresh the long-running ballroom competition after a turbulent period marked by scandals and the departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Dancers Dropped in Bid for Fresh Start
The dancers axed include fan favourite Gorka Marquez, 35, who has been with the show for a decade, reaching the final three times and meeting his partner, actress Gemma Atkinson, on the programme. Also out are Luba Mushtuk, 36, a professional for eight years who has not been paired with a celebrity contestant recently, and Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, a newer cast member who was partnered with Jamie Borthwick in 2024. Insiders report that more changes could be on the horizon as the BBC prepares for the upcoming season.
A source explained to The Sun that all dancers will have meetings to discuss their futures in the coming weeks, with no one considered safe. "Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era," the source added. This overhaul follows a series of controversies that have plagued the show, including allegations of misconduct and police investigations.
Background of Turbulence and Scandals
The changes come after a difficult period for Strictly Come Dancing, which has faced multiple headlines surrounding alleged misconduct behind the scenes. Earlier this year, a male Strictly star was interviewed by police on suspicion of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse, though he was released on bail. In 2023, professional dancer Giovanni Pernice was removed following claims of "bullying" and "aggressive behaviour" by his celebrity partner Amanda Abbington, though he denied abusive or threatening behaviour and was cleared of the most serious allegations after a months-long probe.
Similarly, dancer Graziano Di Prima was axed over claims of misconduct towards partner Zara McDermott during training, with reports alleging he "hit, spat at and kicked" her. Last summer, the BBC reportedly called in police after lawyers began an inquiry into claims two stars had used cocaine. A BBC spokesperson stated, "We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us. We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns."
Impact on the Show's Future
With the departure of key hosts and now three professional dancers, Strictly Come Dancing is clearly aiming for a complete refresh. The show has been a staple of British television for many seasons, but recent scandals have prompted a reevaluation of its lineup and culture. A BBC spokesperson told the Mirror, "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course," indicating that further announcements may follow as the overhaul continues.
This shake-up reflects a broader effort to address past issues and reinvigorate the programme for viewers. As the BBC navigates these changes, fans can expect a transformed Strictly Come Dancing in the upcoming series, with new faces and a renewed focus on moving beyond the drama of recent years.
