Nadiya Bychkova Focuses on Longevity After Strictly Come Dancing Departure
Professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, aged 36, has declared that her body "has to dance for many years to come" following her recent axing from the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. As one of the longest-serving stars on the popular dance show, her departure was confirmed this week by show bosses, sparking widespread discussion among fans and media outlets.
High-Tech Recovery Treatment in Luxury Turkish Resort
In the aftermath of the news, Nadiya embarked on a trip to Turkey, staying at the exclusive Regnum The Crown resort, where rooms cost approximately £3,000 per night. On Thursday, she took to Instagram to share a video clip showcasing her experience with the Huber Motion Lab, a motorised platform designed for physical rehabilitation, fitness enhancement, and body contouring.
In her caption, she emphasised themes of longevity and recovery, writing: "Testing the Huber Motion Lab @regnimthecrown @regnumcarya. Longevity and recovery for the body that has to dance for many years to come." This move highlights her commitment to maintaining peak physical condition despite no longer being part of the Strictly lineup.
Silence on Strictly Exit and Continued Professional Engagements
Nadiya has yet to publicly address her departure from Strictly Come Dancing, with the BBC still to announce the official professional lineup for the upcoming season. Notably, she avoided any mention of the axing during a recent appearance on Morning Live, where she presented a Strictly-inspired fitness regime on Wednesday. Instead, she focused on teaching host Gethin Jones and guests how to recreate a move from Shane Ward's dance routines.
Rumours suggesting her removal was due to age have been dismissed as "well wide of the mark" by sources. Insider reports indicate that the decision not to renew her contract stemmed from backstage tantrums and her friendship with Dan Walker, her celebrity partner in 2021. Her diva-like outbursts reportedly irritated co-stars, while her breakup with fellow professional dancer Kai Widdrington, aged 30, created tension among the cast, making their interactions "awkward."
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions and Performance Concerns
The relationship between Nadiya and Kai, which lasted two years, did not sit well with show executives, who strive to maintain harmony by avoiding ex-partners in the professional lineup. An insider explained: "Strictly is a light entertainment show, but it has to be competitive - otherwise it doesn't work. Execs want the pros to treat the series like a sport and get the best results out of their partners, without going over the top and avoiding bullying scandals which have marred the show in recent years."
Performance issues also played a role in her exit. Nadiya's last three celebrity partners, including Matt Goss, failed to achieve significant success, with none reaching the top 10. The insider added: "So in order to keep standards high, there's hoping whoever fills Nadiya's place on the line-up will achieve better results."
Wider Changes to Strictly Come Dancing Professional 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. Additionally, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional since 2012, has been cut after 13 years on the show. Her recent partners included Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, former footballer Paul Merson, and comedian Eddie Kadi.
In contrast, BBC bosses have secured Katya Jones' place on the show, recognising her popularity with viewers. This reshuffle reflects ongoing efforts to balance entertainment value with competitive standards, ensuring the show remains a ratings success while addressing internal dynamics and performance metrics.
