Former pro Nadiya Bychkova has opened up about the atmosphere on Strictly Come Dancing
Nadiya Bychkova had been a pro for nine years(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)
Strictly’s Nadiya Bychkova has opened up about the show’s “intense environment” after it was confirmed she is leaving the series.
The dancer had been one of the pros on the BBC ballroom programme since 2017 but earlier this year it was confirmed she was exiting. She is one of five professionals who have left the show since its latest series, along with Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas.
Nadiya has now shared a few titbits from life behind the scenes, telling Betway: “I’d have friends come and visit me on set and watch the show from the audience. I’d always tell them how much of a family atmosphere there is backstage, and I’m not sure they believed me. But whenever they came, they always commented on it and seemed surprised by how well everyone got along.
“It’s an intense environment and there are nerves, but it’s a great cast and crew.”
Nadiya also insisted she felt “fine” about leaving Strictly, adding that it was “time for a new chapter”.
The star confirmed in March that she was departing, telling fans on Instagram: “After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.
“There is something truly special about being part of a programme that plays such a big part in so many people’s lives and I want to thank all those who have sent beautiful messages over the last few weeks and those who have voted, shouted, supported, celebrated and cheered during every series.”
“This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore,” she said.
There will be several changes on Strictly this year, because as well as the pro dancer shake-up, presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have stepped down.
Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and former pro Johannes Radebe have been confirmed as the new presenting team.
Several celebrity contestants have already been confirmed ahead of the 2026 competition, including EastEnders star Lacey Turner, Love Island’s Dani Dyer, singer Delta Goodrem and hair stylist Chris Appleton.
Social media star and Love Islander Cach Mercer, TV and radio host Will Best and Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey will also be taking part, with more names yet to be announced.
Strictly Come Dancing is available on BBC iPlayer.
