Strictly Come Dancing star Michelle Tsiakkas has quit the upcoming live tour, amid claims she has been axed from the embattled BBC programme. The announcement was made on the tour's official Instagram page, revealing her withdrawal just weeks before rehearsals were set to begin.
Tour Statement and Disappointment
The statement read: 'Michelle Tsiakkas has decided not to take part in Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour. We are naturally disappointed but respect her decision and wish her every success for the future.' It added that rehearsals will proceed early next month with other professionals, including Julian, Vito, Neil, Gorka, Lauren, Jowita, Luba, Alexis, Kai, and Nancy.
Broader Shake-Up at Strictly
This departure follows a significant shake-up at the BBC show, which has already seen hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman leave. Michelle joins a list of professional dancers, such as Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Márquez, who have reportedly been dropped from the lineup. Earlier this week, The Daily Mail exclusively reported that Karen Hauer, one of the longest-serving pros since 2012, was informed her contract would not be renewed.
Insider Insights and Reactions
Sources indicate that all affected Strictly professionals are already aware of their fate. One insider told the Daily Mail: 'Karen is the latest professional dancer to be told her contract will not be renewed this year. It's very much a case of out with the old and in with the new. As the longest-serving female dancer, Karen found out last week that her time on Strictly is over.' A second source added: 'It's an awful fate for the professional dancers who have dedicated their careers to the show. Karen was obviously very upset after being told the news, but she is trying to remain positive about the future.'
Contrasting Fortunes Among Dancers
While some names have been axed, it was also revealed that Katya Jones will be staying in the lineup and has been handed a new contract by bosses. This highlights the selective nature of the changes, with the show aiming to refresh its roster. The live tour was scheduled to kick off in April, but Michelle's withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the event.
The ongoing restructuring at Strictly Come Dancing reflects broader efforts by the BBC to revitalise the programme, though it has sparked disappointment among fans and professionals alike. As the tour approaches, attention will be on how these changes impact the show's dynamics and performance quality.
