Strictly Come Dancing: Five Pros to Leave the Show as Line-Up Confirmed

Strictly Come Dancing – The BBC has announced significant changes to the professional dance team of Strictly Come Dancing, revealing the departure of five key dancers ahead of this year’s series. Among those leaving is Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female pro on the show, who has spent 14 years contributing to the program’s success. Hauer shared her decision in March, stating that it was time to “close this chapter” and pursue new ventures. Her exit marks the end of an era for the veteran dancer, who has become a familiar face on the dance floor. Other professionals parting ways include Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas, with the BBC yet to announce their replacements. The remaining cast will now prepare for the new season, which is set to kick off in September.

Departing Professionals and Their Reasons

Karen Hauer, whose career with Strictly spans nearly a decade and a half, has chosen to step down after her final season. She expressed her gratitude for the experiences gained, including the chance to work with celebrity partners and collaborate with the show’s creative team. Hauer’s announcement was made via an Instagram video, where she reflected on the impact the show has had on her life. “Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being,” she said, highlighting the emotional and professional growth she has experienced. Despite her departure, Hauer remains connected to the show, having recently been cast as a dance instructor in a comedy play titled *Stepping Out*.

Gorka Marquez, who has been a staple of the professional line-up for ten years, is also leaving the show. His exit follows a scheduling conflict that prevented him from having a celebrity partner last season, as he transitioned to a judging role on the Spanish version of the series. However, Marquez’s personal life has also seen changes, with his relationship with Gemma Atkinson, a former contestant, evolving into a lifelong partnership. The couple now shares two children, and Marquez has hinted at the personal fulfillment the show has brought to his life.

Nadiya Bychkova, a newer addition to the cast since 2017, is also moving on. She cited the desire to “focus on new projects” and spend more time with her daughter as the primary reasons for her exit. Bychkova’s comments emphasized her gratitude for the opportunities the show has provided, stating, “Life feels full of possibilities.” Similarly, Luba Mushtuk, who joined the program in 2018, believes it’s time to “follow my dreams beyond the show” and embrace new challenges. Her decision reflects a growing trend of professionals seeking paths outside the spotlight while still appreciating the experiences they’ve gained.

Michele Tsiakkas, who has been a part of the cast since 2022, has also decided to leave. She highlighted the value of the time she spent on the show, noting, “I hoped to have more time” to showcase her skills. Tsiakkas expressed her satisfaction with the moments shared during the series, even though her position was not guaranteed. “As professionals on the show, we can never assume our places are secure,” she said, but added that she was “grateful for every experience and every chance I had to share my passion.” Her departure leaves a void in the lineup, but the BBC has confirmed that 15 of the previous 20 professionals will return, ensuring continuity for the 2026 series.

Returning Judges and Unconfirmed Hosts

The judging panel of Strictly Come Dancing will remain intact, with Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke all set to return. These judges have played a pivotal role in the show’s success, offering expertise and critiques that shape the competition. However, the host lineup is still under review, with Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly yet to be replaced. The BBC has not disclosed any details about the new hosts, leaving fans to speculate about potential candidates. This uncertainty adds an element of anticipation for the upcoming season, as the show’s presentation is as crucial as the dance performances themselves.

In a recent update, the BBC highlighted the balance between returning dancers and fresh talent, noting that “a dynamic and world-class roster of professionals” will be complemented by new faces from the global dance community. This mix of experienced dancers and newcomers is expected to elevate the show’s entertainment value, bringing diverse perspectives and styles to the ballroom. The announcement also underscored the emotional and physical demands of the role, as many professionals have faced challenges such as injuries and health issues while maintaining their commitments.

New Line-Up and Future Prospects

The 2026 series will feature a lineup that includes several familiar names, such as Amy Dowden. Dowden, who was eliminated in the previous season with her partner Tom Skinner, will return after a brief hiatus. Her absence last year was due to an injury that forced her to withdraw from the 2024 series and later a diagnosis of breast cancer, which delayed her participation in 2023. Despite these obstacles, Dowden’s presence in the new season is a testament to her resilience and dedication to the craft.

Among the returning professionals, there is a sense of continuity and camaraderie, as many have built lasting relationships over the years. The BBC’s statement praised the “exciting mix of experience and showmanship” that the lineup will offer, suggesting that the show’s charm and competitiveness will remain intact. While the exact composition of the new team has not been fully revealed, the emphasis on a world-class selection indicates that the 2026 season will be as thrilling as ever.

Strictly Come Dancing has always been a platform where both dancers and celebrities grow, with each season offering new stories and challenges. The departure of the five professionals marks a transition, but the show’s ability to adapt and innovate ensures it will continue to captivate audiences. As preparations begin, fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of replacements and the first glimpse of the new line-up. The September 2026 series promises to be a celebration of talent, both on and off the dance floor.

“Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being.”

Karen Hauer’s words resonate with the broader narrative of the show, which has been a transformative journey for its participants. Her departure is not just a professional shift but also a personal milestone, as she prepares to explore new roles and opportunities. Hauer’s final season was marked by a mix of emotions, including the bittersweet farewell to a career that has defined her. “I’ll even miss standing in front of the judges,” she admitted, noting the irony of smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing with their feedback.

The changes to the line-up also reflect the evolving dynamics of the show. While some professionals are leaving, others are stepping into new roles, such as host or mentor. The BBC’s decision to retain 15 of the 20 dancers from last year demonstrates confidence in the current team, but it also signals a willingness to introduce fresh perspectives. This balance is crucial for maintaining the show’s appeal and relevance in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.

With the series approaching, there is a palpable energy in the air. The professional dancers and judges will be preparing for the challenges ahead, while fans are already looking forward to the new season. The absence of certain names, such as Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, adds intrigue, as their replacements will play a vital role in shaping the show’s identity. Despite the uncertainty, the BBC’s emphasis on a “dynamic” and “world-class” team suggests that the 2026 series will be as polished and entertaining as ever.