Strictly Come Dancing fans are in for a whirlwind as the professional dancer line-up for the new series has finally been confirmed—following a brutal cast cull that saw several fan favourites axed.
Among those not returning are Strictly regulars Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer (43), Michelle Tsiakkas (30), Luba Mushtuk (36), and Gorka Marquez (35). However, several beloved stars will make their return to the iconic ballroom, including Dianne Buswell, who is back after her maternity leave following the birth of her son Bowden in March. Dianne’s comeback has left fans thrilled, especially after competing while pregnant on last year’s series.
Amy Dowden is also returning, much to the delight of her fans. After a premature exit last season alongside Thomas Skinner, Amy is determined to make a lasting impression this time around.
Alongside these two, Strictly fans can expect to see familiar faces like Julian Caillon, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Jowita Przystał, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Alexis Warr, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Lauren Oakley, and Vito Coppola returning to the dancefloor.
New faces will join the line-up as well in 2026, adding fresh energy to the series, while the judging panel remains steady with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas returning.
As exciting as this confirmation is, the show’s future is also uncertain as the BBC has yet to name replacements for hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Since their departure last October, Strictly bosses have been scrambling to secure new talent to host the show, with just four months remaining until the 24th series kicks off.
A source revealed that a series of auditions were held for potential hosts, and the front-runners include Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, Tom Allen, podcast host Angela Scanlon, and One Show presenter Alex Jones. Also making a play for the hosting gig are This Morning star Alison Hammond and The Chase presenter Bradley Walsh. Insiders say the key is chemistry—whoever is selected will need to bring energy, fun, and natural banter to live TV.
Meanwhile, Gorka Marquez has confirmed his permanent departure from the show after a decade of dazzling performances. The Spanish ballroom dancer made a heartfelt post on Instagram, saying: “After last year’s decision to step down as a full-time professional due to scheduling conflicts, I’ve decided that now is the time to hang up my dance shoes and say goodbye to Strictly.” While Gorka will no longer be a permanent fixture on the show, he will still be part of the Strictly Pro Tour later this year, sharing the stage with his fellow dancers one last time. His departure marks a significant change in the show’s professional line-up.
The decision to part ways with several high-profile dancers has sparked some controversy, but producers are hoping that the changes will bring new energy to the series.
The search for new hosts is critical following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departure. The BBC has conducted extensive auditions, with insiders saying that the chemistry between the new hosts will be paramount. “They want to bring the fun this year,” said a source. “Chemistry is key, and the ability to work together and keep the energy high live on air will be the deciding factor.”
However, the cast cull and changes to the show go beyond just the professionals and hosts. Fleur East and Janette Manrara have reportedly been axed from the Strictly spin-off It Takes Two, signaling a major revamp of the BBC Two weeknight show. After taking over hosting duties in 2021, former professional dancer Janette and pop star Fleur, who joined in 2023, are now out of the picture. It Takes Two will undergo a complete overhaul as bosses push for a bold new direction following a series of scandals surrounding the main show.
The latest shake-up comes on the heels of multiple controversies within the Strictly franchise, including allegations of misconduct and drama behind the scenes. Professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano di Prima have both left the show under clouded circumstances, with Graziano departing after an incident involving his partner, Zara McDermott. Giovanni was investigated by the BBC over bullying allegations made by his partner Amanda Abbington, some of which were upheld.
Despite the turbulent times, Strictly is looking forward to a refreshed line-up with new energy, aiming to make the 24th season one to remember. While fans are mourning the loss of some fan favourites, there’s excitement surrounding the new professional dancers and fresh energy in the presenting team. The ultimate question remains: Will the changes spark a renewed magic, or is the show losing its spark?
One thing is for sure—the drama both on and off the dancefloor is set to continue, and with the revamped line-up, Strictly fans have plenty to look forward to later this year.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
