Home / Arts and Entertainment / Nadiya Bychkova's Strictly Exit Linked to Romances & Outbursts
Nadiya Bychkova's Strictly Exit Linked to Romances & Outbursts
10 Mar
Summary
- Nadiya Bychkova axed from Strictly over alleged backstage tantrums.
- Relationship with Kai Widdrington and friendship with Dan Walker cited.
- Performances with celebrity partners resulted in disappointing early exits.
Nadiya Bychkova has been removed from the Strictly Come Dancing professional lineup, with sources refuting claims of ageism as the primary reason for her departure. Instead, insiders point to alleged backstage behaviour and personal relationships as key factors. Reports indicate that "diva-like outbursts" and tension surrounding her past two-year relationship with fellow dancer Kai Widdrington unsettled the professional group.
BBC bosses also reportedly disapproved of Bychkova's close friendship with married presenter Dan Walker, feeling it drew undue scrutiny to the show. While Bychkova achieved her best finish of 5th with Walker in 2021, her subsequent partnerships with Tom Dean and Chris Robshaw in 2024 and 2025 respectively, resulted in disappointing 15th and 13th-place finishes.
Show executives are said to be keen on "freshening things up" for the 2026 series, which will also feature new hosts. Bychkova's exit, alongside Gorka Marquez and Luba Mushtuk, has fueled speculation about ageism, but insiders suggest older dancers are valued for their established fan bases. The ultimate expectation is that professional dancers maintain high standards of conduct and performance.
