Nadiya Bychkova Talks About Her Future Plans and Possible Return to Strictly Come Dancing
Nadiya Bychkova, the Ukrainian professional dancer known for her time on Strictly Come Dancing, has shared her thoughts on what comes next in her career. The 36-year-old, who was axed from the show earlier this year, is already in discussions about a potential return — albeit in a different role.
The news of Nadiya’s departure came as part of a major shake-up in the Strictly line-up following the exits of long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Fans were surprised when several pros, including Nadiya, were let go. However, in her first interview since being dropped, Nadiya revealed that she’s already in talks with producers about returning to the BBC series.
She told Hello magazine that a return is definitely on the table, but not necessarily as a competitor. Instead, she hopes to focus on choreography. “It is absolutely [on the cards]. We are talking about, hopefully in the future, me coming and choreographing some of the pro numbers,” she said.
Nadiya explained that her passion for creating and choreographing has been well-known for years. “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.”
New Hosts and a Fresh Perspective
With the new hosting team of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe taking over, Nadiya shared her thoughts on how the show might evolve. She praised the trio, particularly Johannes, for bringing something fresh and exciting to the program.
“It’s lovely to see Johannes stepping into such a big role. 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,” she said.
Nadiya admitted that the end of her era on the show was emotional, but she sees it as a positive step forward. “It was a good emotion because it now paves the way for the next thing that is coming.”
A New Chapter: I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here?
As if her potential return to Strictly wasn’t enough, Nadiya may also be set for a stint on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here. Reports suggest she is in advanced talks to appear on the ITV show, with insiders claiming she has impressed the bosses.
“She has always been on the radar but has been unable to take part because of her commitment to Strictly,” a TV insider told The Sun. “Now she’s a free agent, the offers have been coming in thick and fast. She’s had a number of chats about doing the jungle. Bosses are so impressed with her it’s even been suggested she turns down other shows.”
While ITV and Nadiya’s representatives have not yet commented, the possibility of her joining the jungle adds another layer to her evolving career.
A Grateful Farewell
Nadiya was one of several pros to be axed from Strictly this year, alongside Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez. After nine years on the show, she shared the news of her exit on Instagram, expressing her gratitude to fans and colleagues.
“After nine wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving,” she wrote. “There is something truly special about being part of a programme that plays such a big part in so many people’s lives…”
She also thanked everyone who supported her throughout the years, adding that Strictly had allowed her to discover new sides of herself and develop as an artist.
Tess Daly, one of the former hosts, was among the first to respond, writing: “Love you to bits. Beautiful inside and out.”
In a statement confirming Nadiya’s exit, the BBC praised her contributions to the show, saying: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Nadiya Bychkova for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing.”
