The BBC has confirmed that five members of the professional line-up on Strictly Come Dancing have left the show, as preparations get underway for this year’s series.
Karen Hauer, the programme’s longest-serving female professional, is stepping down after 14 years. She said in March that she had “decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects”.
Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas are also departing, with the BBC yet to reveal their replacements.
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In an update, the broadcaster said that 15 of last year’s 20 professionals will return for the 2026 series, alongside new additions still to be announced.
“This year a dynamic and world class roster of returning Professional Dancers will be joined by fresh top talent from the international dance world, bringing an exciting mix of experience and showmanship to the Strictly ballroom,” the BBC said.
While the exits mark a significant reshuffle behind the scenes of one of the UK’s biggest entertainment formats, several familiar faces – including those with strong ties to the North – are set to return.
Among them is Amy Dowden, who competed last year after previously stepping back from the show following injury and a breast cancer diagnosis. Kai Widdrington, who has strong ties to Newcastle, is also confirmed to return, alongside Lauren Oakley, who has built her career through the UK dance circuit.
The returning professional line-up also includes Nikita Kuzmin, Dianne Buswell, Johannes Radebe and Vito Coppola.
Hauer’s departure marks the end of an era for the long-running BBC format. In an Instagram video posted earlier this year, she reflected on her time on the show. “Strictly completely changed my life,” she posted, “Not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being.
“I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much.”
Gorka Marquez exits after a decade on the show, having most recently stepped back from competing due to “scheduling conflicts” following his role as a judge on the Spanish version of the format. He met his partner, Bury actress and radio host Gemma Atkinson, through the show.
Michelle Tsiakkas, who joined in 2022, said she “hoped to have more time” on the programme, adding:
“Of course, as professionals on the show we can never assume our places are guaranteed, but I hoped to have more time.
“I wish I could have shown you more of what I can do, but I’m grateful for every experience and every chance I had to share my passion and connect with the audience.”
Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke will all return for the new series. However, the BBC has yet to confirm who will replace hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
The celebrity contestant line-up is expected to be revealed ahead of the show’s return, which is anticipated in September.
