Nadiya Bychkova Embraces Cryotherapy in Turkey After Strictly Come Dancing Departure
Professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, aged 36, has been focusing on longevity and recovery with a spa day that included cryotherapy, following her recent axing from the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. The Ukrainian star, a long-term fixture on the popular dance show, was culled by producers this week, marking a significant change in the lineup for the upcoming season.
Luxury Escape to Turkey Amidst Career Shift
Since news of her removal emerged, Nadiya has been indulging in a trip to Turkey, staying at the opulent Regnum The Crown resort, where rooms cost approximately £3,000 per night. On Tuesday, she showcased her toned physique in a light pink gym set while trying out cryotherapy, a treatment that uses extreme cold to accelerate athletic recovery, reduce inflammation, and alleviate muscle pain. This spa day serves as a distraction from the professional setback, as she has not yet publicly addressed her departure from Strictly Come Dancing, with the BBC yet to announce the official lineup for this year.
Behind the Scenes: Reasons for the Axing
Contrary to rumours suggesting her age played a role, insiders reveal that Nadiya's axing stems from backstage tantrums and her friendship with Dan Walker, her celebrity partner in 2021. Her diva-like outbursts reportedly infuriated co-stars, and her breakup with fellow dancer Kai Widdrington, 30, created unwanted tension among the professionals, making their interactions awkward. The relationship, which lasted two years, did not sit well with bosses, who strive to maintain harmony by avoiding exes in the lineup.
An insider explained: Strictly is a light entertainment show, but it has to be competitive - otherwise it doesn't work. Executives want the pros to treat the series like a sport and achieve the best results with their partners, without going over the top or causing bullying scandals that have marred the show in recent years. Nadiya's recent performances with celebrity partners, including Matt Goss, failed to impress, as she did not reach the top 10 in any of her last three outings. To uphold high standards, producers hope her replacement will deliver better outcomes.
Broader Changes in the Strictly Lineup
Nadiya is not alone in her departure; other professional dancers axed this year include Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35. In a further shake-up, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional since 2012, has also been cut after 13 years on the programme. Her recent partners included Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, former footballer Paul Merson, and comedian Eddie Kadi.
Meanwhile, BBC bosses have secured Katya Jones' place on the show, recognising her popularity with viewers. This move highlights the ongoing efforts to balance talent and viewer appeal in the Strictly Come Dancing roster, as the show navigates behind-the-scenes dynamics and performance expectations.
