Strictly Come Dancing has officially confirmed the exit of another professional following an overhaul for the new series.
Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Luba Mushtuk were all recently confirmed to leave ahead of the 2026 run – and on Tuesday (31 March), the BBC released a statement announcing Michelle Tsiakkas was no longer associated with the show.
Tsiakkas expressed disappointment with the news, writing on Instagram that she “hoped to have more time”.
“I won’t be returning to Strictly this year,” the Cypriot dancer, 30, said. “This has been an emotional time for me because Strictly has been a big part of my life, not just over the past four years but for as long as I can remember. It’s a show that I’ll always hold close to my heart.”
She said that as a professional on the show, she never assumed her place was guaranteed, but said: “I wish I could have shown you more of what I can do.”
The BBC wrote in a statement: “Thank you to Michelle Tsiakkas for everything she has brought to Strictly Come Dancing over the past four series,” it read.
“During her time on the show, Michelle has delivered some excellent performances, whether in the series’ group routines, alongside guest music artists, or with celebrity partners across the main series and the Christmas special whom she has always taught with professionalism, respect and kindness.”
The BBC added that Tsiakkas’s “talent, dedication and energy have been much appreciated, and everyone wishes her all the very best for what comes next”.
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Tsiakkas thanked the Strictly team “for being supportive during this period, offering help and giving me the time and space to talk things through and process the news”.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Tsiakkas quit the Strictly Professionals tour, which closely followed reports she was leaving the main show.
Tsiakkas confirmed this was the case, and said her decision stemmed from the belief she “wouldn’t have been able to give my very best”.
“After reflection, I believe this was the best decision for me, and your understanding and support have meant a lot,” she said.
A statement from the tour’s official social media pages read: “Michelle Tsiakkas has decided not to take part in ‘Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour.’
“We are naturally disappointed but respect her decision and wish her every success for the future.”
Tsiakkas joined in 2022 and was teamed up with actor Jamie Borthwick, her first celebrity partner, in 2024. They were eliminated in week 10.
