There is clearly no hard feelings between Nadiya Bychkova and Strictly Come Dancing bosses and talks are underway to see the Ukrainian pro return to the programme13:29, 02 Jun 2026Sacked Nadiya Bychkova looks set for an incredible Strictly Come Dancing return months after being axed.The Ukrainian confirmed back in March that she wasn't part of the show's future after nine years on the dancefloor. The news was confirmed by the BBC, who thanked her for her "incredible contribution" saying Nadiya has brought "elegance, artistry and unwavering dedication to the ballroom" since her arrival in 2017.Nadiya was one of five professionals to exit the show this year, including Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas. She has since been linked with I'm A Celebrity but in a sudden U-turn, she has announced talks are happening which could see her return to play a part in Strictly when it is back on screens in September .The dance pro also gave her thoughts on new hosts, Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe who will replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.When quizzed on whether she'd consider returning she told Hello magazine: "Absolutely. It is absolutely [on the cards]. We are talking about, hopefully in the future, me coming and choreographing some of the pro numbers. The team have known for years how passionate I am about creating things and choreographing."Lots of producers came to watch shows that I did myself. This is the natural thing to do, because of what I love and what I want to do. It would be beautiful to see some of my creations and stories [that] I want to tell through dance on Strictly one day."Emma, Josh and Johannes landed the top jobs last month and she is excited to see what they bring. "It’s lovely to see Johannes stepping into such a big role," she said. "I think audiences connect with him because he brings warmth, authenticity and joy. Honestly, I think it’s wonderful when dancers are given opportunities to grow beyond just one role. We all evolve creatively."Nadiya released a statement to announce her sad exit from Strictly after nine years. Four other professional dancers exited the show and five new stars will step in to replace them.Speaking about the programme, she said: "After nine 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."I also want to take a moment to appreciate all those who have helped me along the way: my partners, my fellow professionals, the judges and brilliant people behind the scenes. I joined the show as an athlete and a double world champion."She added in a lengthy message: "Along the way I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively. Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for."She went on to insist it 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 shared on social media."I’ve changed a lot since I first stepped onto that dance floor, not just as a performer, but as a person and I can honestly say I’ve never felt more like myself. I’m excited to have time to focus on new projects, and to spend more precious time with my beautiful daughter. Life feels full of possibilities."Article continues belowLike this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.
Axed Strictly pro Nadiya Bychkova already in talks to return to the show
There is clearly no hard feelings between Nadiya Bychkova and Strictly Come Dancing bosses and talks are underway to see the Ukrainian pro return to the programme










