Strictly Professional Michelle Tsiakkas Exits Live Tour Amid Allegations of Broken Promises
Michelle Tsiakkas has reportedly withdrawn from the Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour after feeling that she was "promised one thing and given another," according to sources close to the dancer. The announcement was made on the tour's official Instagram page, confirming her departure ahead of the scheduled April kickoff.
Tour Exit Follows Claims of Axing from Main BBC Show
The news of Michelle's tour exit emerges alongside claims that she has been dropped from the main BBC Strictly Come Dancing television series. This development is part of a broader shake-up within the show, which has seen several long-serving professional dancers, including Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Márquez, also axed from the lineup.
A source revealed to The Sun that Michelle is currently processing the situation, having made significant personal sacrifices for the show with expectations of a long-term commitment. "I think she feels like she was promised one thing but has been given something totally different," the insider stated.
Official Statement and Tour Rehearsals Proceed
The tour's official statement expressed disappointment but respect for Michelle's decision, wishing her "every success for the future." Rehearsals are set to commence early next month with the remaining professional dancers, including Julian, Vito, Neil, Gorka, Lauren, Jowita, Luba, Alexis, Kai, and Nancy.
This reshuffling comes in the wake of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's departure, signaling a period of transition for the popular BBC programme. Sources indicate that all professional dancers are already aware of their contractual statuses, with some facing non-renewals.
Further Fallout Among Strictly Professionals
Earlier this week, The Daily Mail exclusively reported that Karen Hauer, a professional since 2012 and one of the longest-serving dancers, was informed that her contract would not be renewed. An insider described the move as "out with the old and in with the new," noting Karen's upset but positive outlook toward future endeavors in choreography and fitness.
Conversely, Katya Jones has secured a new contract and will remain in the lineup. Meanwhile, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu, who have rarely or never had celebrity partners, are expected to continue participating primarily in group dance numbers.
Broader Implications and Industry Reactions
Sources suggest that BBC bosses are aiming for a fresh start following years of criticism and controversy surrounding the professional dancers. A second source lamented the situation, calling it "an awful fate for the professional dancers who have dedicated their careers to the show."
The Daily Mail has reached out to the BBC and representatives for Michelle Tsiakkas for comment, but responses are pending as the Strictly community navigates this period of significant change.
