Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova expressed distress after she continued to work with a colleague she described as 'abusive', despite lodging a complaint with BBC executives. Bychkova, who joined the show in 2017, reportedly approached three senior executives in 2024 with her concerns, requesting they intervene to keep her away from the individual.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Bychkova felt her concerns were downplayed and that the colleague's behavior was being normalized. She reportedly communicated her struggles both verbally and in writing, but did not feel sufficient action was taken. Despite the BBC offering to conduct a formal investigation, which Bychkova declined, she was reportedly devastated to still have to work alongside the individual.
The BBC's then HR director of production did respond to Bychkova's written complaint, offering to conduct a formal review and reportedly asking Strictly production staff to minimize contact between the two. However, Bychkova's account suggests these measures were insufficient.
Friends of Bychkova have questioned whether her allegations contributed to her departure from Strictly in March, which occurred as part of a wider group of professional dancers being let go. The BBC stated at the time of Bychkova's exit that she would "always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family."
The report follows other behind-the-scenes incidents that have reportedly taken place on the show. A BBC spokesperson stated, "While we are not going to comment on individuals or HR processes, when issues are raised with us they are always handled seriously and appropriate action is taken."