Strictly Come Dancing has been accused of ageism after professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, 36, was reportedly axed from the show. A source claimed the BBC is adopting an 'out with the old, in with the new' approach, clearing out older dancers to make way for younger replacements.
Nadiya is said to be 'devastated' by the decision, as the show 'is her life'. She joined Strictly in 2017 and has been partnered with celebrities including Davood Ghadami, Lee Ryan, and Dan Walker. She is one of four dancers reportedly dropped, alongside Gorka Marquez, 35, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Michelle Tsiakkas, 30.
The mass cull comes amid a major shake-up behind the scenes, following several scandals in recent years. The show also faces the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who jointly decided to leave after the 2025 series.
When approached for comment, a BBC spokesperson said plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 would be confirmed 'in due course'.
