Nadiya Bychkova Returns to Strictly's 'It Takes Two' After Being Dropped
The former professional dancer thrilled fans with a surprise appearance on the spin-off show, months after her departure from the main lineup.
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova made a surprise return to the show's spin-off, "It Takes Two," on Friday night, delighting fans.
Bychkova, along with other long-standing professional dancers, was removed from the main lineup in March during a significant shake-up. Her appearance on "It Takes Two" marked a return to the Strictly family after her unexpected axing.
For the segment, Bychkova joined Kimberley Walsh and Jay McGuinness as a guest panelist, discussing the current season with new host Ellie Taylor. Dressed in a black leather minidress, she engaged in conversations about the contestants' routines ahead of the upcoming Movie Week, appearing to harbor no ill will towards the show.
Viewers expressed their joy on X, formerly Twitter, at seeing Bychkova back on screen. Many commented on her positive presence and offered support, with some questioning the decision to remove her from the professional dancer roster. "So nice to see Nadiya Byckova back on #ItTakesTwo and still part of the #Strictly family," one user posted. Another added, "Lovely to see the talented, dignified Nadiya on @bbcstrictly #ittakestwo Whoever decided to ‘refresh’ her out of the pro line-up wants kicking with very spangly pointed shoes."
During her appearance, Bychkova, who was a professional dancer on Strictly for nine years, offered advice to the contestants. She emphasized the importance of comfort and preparation for their upcoming performances, particularly with Movie Week approaching.
In a June interview with Hello! magazine, Bychkova indicated that she had been in contact with producers about a potential return to the BBC series in a different capacity. She expressed interest in choreographing professional numbers, stating, "It is absolutely [on the cards]. We are talking about, hopefully in the future, me coming and choreographing some of the pro numbers." Bychkova noted her passion for creating and choreographing, suggesting that seeing her own creations on Strictly would be a natural progression.
Beyond Strictly, Bychkova is reportedly in advanced talks to appear on the ITV show "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!" She is said to have impressed ITV bosses and is a top choice for the upcoming season.