Nadiya Bychkova Embraces New Chapter After Leaving Strictly Come Dancing
Nadiya Bychkova, the Ukrainian dancer known for her nine-year stint on Strictly Come Dancing, recently shared a lighthearted moment during her sun-soaked vacation in Fuerteventura. The 36-year-old, who was recently ‘axed’ from the show’s professional lineup, took to Instagram with a fun video featuring her daughter Mila, aged nine, and friends as they danced and mimed to Natasha Bedingfield’s hit song “Unwritten.”
In the clip, Nadiya looked stunning in a fluffy white dressing gown, showing off her long, toned legs. She used a bottle of champagne as a makeshift microphone, adding a touch of glamour to the scene. Mila and her friends played the role of back-up dancers, while Nadiya’s pal joined in with a lamp, playing it like a trombone.
The former Strictly star subtly hinted at her future plans by referencing the song’s lyrics in a cryptic post that read: “Proof that blank pages don’t stay blank for long.” This message has sparked curiosity among fans about what lies ahead for Nadiya.
A Bittersweet Farewell
BBC fans have been left shocked as several beloved Strictly stars, including Nadiya, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez, have all been let go from the show. However, Nadiya has taken to social media to share her thoughts on this new chapter in her career.
In a heartfelt statement, she wrote: “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.”
She continued: “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. Along the way, I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively.”
Looking Ahead
Nadiya revealed she is excited about the future and how her role on the show will evolve. She said: “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. 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 added: “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.”
Nadiya also expressed her love for dancing, stating: “I danced before Strictly, I loved dancing on the show and I plan to keep dancing for many years to come. Thank you for all the love and support along the way.”
New Opportunities
Since releasing her statement, it has been reported that BBC bosses felt it would be a “real loss” to lose Nadiya from the Strictly family altogether. A source told The Sun: “Nadiya is so recognisable with viewers, and bosses felt it would be a real loss to lose her from the Strictly family altogether. After a few conversations, they offered her a choreography role which she is very open to.”
The source added: “Obviously, she is sad to no longer be dancing, but recognises she will have great scope for more lucrative commercial opportunities now, and can explore exciting new projects.”
Daily Mail has contacted the BBC and Nadiya’s representative for comment.
