Nadiya Bychkova has broken her silence following her departure from Strictly Come Dancing, confirming that discussions are underway for her to make a surprise return to the BBC programme in a new capacity.
Speaking in her first interview since being dropped from the professional line-up, the 36-year-old Ukrainian dancer said a comeback is “absolutely on the cards”.
“We are talking about, hopefully in the future, me coming and choreographing some of the pro numbers,” she said.
The revelation comes after the dancer confirmed her exit from Strictly Come Dancing in March 2026, stating that her journey was “evolving” after nine years on the show.
Nadiya Bychkova was cut from the BBC show after nearly a decade
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BBCIn a heartfelt Instagram post, she wrote: “After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.
“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.”
The dancer went on to say: “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.
“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.”
The dancer revealed that she may return to the BBC show to choreograph some of the pro numbers
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Elsewhere in the interview with Hello!, Ms Bychkova admitted that her departure from the hit BBC show was difficult to process.
“When things are coming to an end, of course, it’s emotional, and you kind of go, ‘Oh.’ Like, this is the end of this chapter,” she told the magazine.
However, the dancer said she is excited about what lies ahead.
Ms Bychkova also voiced her support for the programme’s new presenting team of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, who are replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Ms Bychkova with her daughter, Mila
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She believes the trio will “bring something really fresh and exciting to the show” and expressed delight at seeing her former colleague step into such a prominent role.
“It’s lovely to see Johannes stepping into such a big role,” she said.
When asked what advice she would offer the new hosts, Ms Bychkova said: “I’m not a presenter, so it’s not for me to give advice.”
Ms Bychkova revealed that her departure has brought unexpected benefits, particularly in spending time with her nine-year-old daughter, Mila.
The dancer said that the month of August “had previously been dominated by rehearsals for group numbers during the school holidays.”
The dancer, who joined Strictly in 2017 and partnered celebrities including Dan Walker, David James and Matt Goss, is also pursuing new ventures.
She is currently touring with the live dance show Jukebox Idols alongside vocal group The Overtones.
Nadiya Bychkova found her departure from the show difficult to process
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PAMeanwhile, sources suggest ITV producers have shown interest in Ms Bychkova for I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
An insider told The Sun that offers have been “coming in thick and fast” since she became available, with jungle bosses allegedly urging her to prioritise their programme over other opportunities.
GB News has reached out to Ms Bychkova’s team for comment.