Nadiya Bychkova Poses in White Bikini on Luxury Holiday After Strictly Come Dancing Departure
Professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, aged 35, has been seen flaunting her impressive figure in a white bikini on Instagram, as she continues to move past her recent axing from Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC decision to drop her is part of a broader effort to completely refresh the show, following various scandals and the departure of long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Luxury Getaway in Turkey
Nadiya put on a brave face during her opulent holiday at the Regnum The Crown resort in Turkey, where nightly rates soar to approximately £3,000. She posed for a sizzling snapshot in a white two-piece bikini, featuring a triangle top and matching bottoms, while sweeping her wet blonde hair away from her face. The stunning images were captured in a luxurious cave waterfall swimming pool at the five-star A-list resort, which has previously hosted celebrities like Jennifer Lopez.
This display comes just a day after she shared a fun video on social media, dancing by the pool to Bruno Mars' new single Cha Cha Cha, wearing a stylish black and white bikini and matching trousers. The resort has become a celebrity hotspot, with notable guests last summer including Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury, as well as Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash.
Focus on Wellness and International Women's Day
During her stay, Nadiya has emphasized her wellness journey and celebrated International Women's Day by highlighting the strength and resilience of women. She posted on social media, Celebrating women today and every day. The strength, the joy, the resilience and the beautiful way we lift each other up. And sometimes… a little dance along the way. Happy International Women’s Day.
Controversy Over Strictly Come Dancing Axing
Despite her outward positivity, reports indicate that Nadiya has been left devastated by her removal from Strictly Come Dancing. A friend of the dancer has accused the BBC of ageism, suggesting that her departure is part of a mass cull to make room for newer dancers. Nadiya had been a part of the show for eight years, partnering with celebrities such as TV presenter Dan Walker, singer Matt Goss, and actor Davood Ghadami.
The friend stated, Her axing smacks of ageism. Nadiya's one of the most popular dancers so she can't understand why she won't be back. She's devastated – the show is her life. This sentiment echoes broader changes in the show, with other professional dancers like Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas also being dropped.
Additional Changes in the Show Lineup
Further adjustments include Neil Jones, aged 43, and Nancy Xu, aged 34, who will not have celebrity partners in the upcoming series, though they may still participate in group dances. In contrast, Nadiya and others have been completely removed from the dancefloor. Last year, Nadiya was partnered with rugby player Chris Robshaw, but she was not included in the Strictly Live tour and has now been informed that her time on the show is over.
Friends reveal that Nadiya, a Ukrainian five-time World Champion, is naturally very disappointed but is in discussions about potentially remaining involved behind the scenes in choreography. Meanwhile, fellow axed dancer Gorka Marquez, who met his fiancé Gemma Atkinson on the show, has had a successful decade on Strictly, including three finals.
Background on Strictly Come Dancing Scandals
The refresh comes amid a series of scandals that have plagued Strictly Come Dancing, including allegations of drug use and abusive behavior by professional dancers. Notably, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano di Prima both left the show following investigations into misconduct. Producers are seeking a fresh start for the BBC1 program, with new presenters expected to be announced soon after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's departures.
It is important to note that there is no suggestion that any of the professionals being removed as part of this refresh have been involved in any wrongdoing. Nadiya's bond with former partner Dan Walker was particularly strong, with him praising her as an amazing person and a lifelong friend after their time on the show ended emotionally.
Personal Life and Future Prospects
Nadiya, who previously posed nude for Slovenian Playboy in 2015, has a daughter named Mila, aged nine, from a past relationship with footballer Maria Skarabot. She also dated Strictly pro Kai Widdrington, but that relationship ended in 2024 due to work pressures. Recently, she has been seen with stage actor Ian McIntosh and has expressed a cautious approach to dating, ruling out dating apps.
The BBC has stated, Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course. As Nadiya enjoys her luxury holiday and focuses on her wellness, the future of the show remains in flux, with fans and insiders alike watching closely for further developments.
