Nikita Kuzmin has expressed his regret over the departure of fellow Ukrainian professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. The show’s lineup for the upcoming autumn series was revealed on Wednesday, confirming that Kuzmin will return, but Bychkova, along with Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, Karen Hauer, and Gorka Marquez, will not be part of the new season.
When asked if he was sorry to see Bychkova go, Kuzmin responded diplomatically: “I’m always sorry to see anyone go.” He also addressed uncertainty about his own future on the show, stating: “Well, nothing is certain but I haven’t heard otherwise. Every time they want me back, I’ll be happy to return. If they’ll have me, I’ll start more or less the next day.”
Kuzmin and Bychkova share a Ukrainian heritage, and he confirmed they have discussed the ongoing war in Ukraine. He still has family in the country, including cousins and friends, and was instrumental in helping his grandmother leave Kyiv four years ago. He expressed sadness that the war has slipped from the news agenda, saying: “Now, all everyone is talking about is what’s happening in the Middle East. But I so admire the way my people have adapted; their resilience makes me burst with pride. It makes me very emotional.”
In April, Kuzmin ran the London Marathon to raise funds for Diabetes UK, having been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 13. He wears a sensor on his arm to monitor his blood sugar levels, which he says has “changed my life massively.” He manages the condition with jelly babies or orange juice for low levels and insulin injections for high levels. Despite the challenges, he views his diabetes as a “super-power,” stating: “It teaches you to be responsible for yourself, to be vigilant at all times.”
Kuzmin has competed in three series of Strictly, finishing sixth with Tilly Ramsay in 2021, tenth with Ellie Simmonds in 2022, and runner-up with Amber Davies last year. He defended Davies against criticism that she had an unfair advantage due to her dance training, saying: “Criticism is all right but we need to draw a line before it becomes personal.”
