Strictly Come Dancing star Aljaž Škorjanec has publicly defended the BBC's controversial decision to axe several professional dancers from the popular competition series. The Slovenian dancer, who first appeared on the show in 2013, argued that such changes are necessary to maintain the programme's vitality and appeal.
Significant Changes at Strictly Come Dancing
The BBC series is currently undergoing substantial transformation following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in December 2025. Last week, reports emerged indicating that five professional dancers had been dropped from the show: Michelle Tsiakkas (30), Gorka Márquez (35), Luba Mushtuk (36), Nadiya Bychkova (36), and Karen Hauer (43).
Škorjanec's Perspective on the Cast Changes
While acknowledging that everyone is "waiting for the official announcement" from the BBC, Škorjanec told The Mirror that "whatever the Strictly bosses do is in the best interest of the show." The 36-year-old dancer elaborated on his position, stating that while it's sad to see colleagues leave, "it's equally exciting to see new faces, fresh energy, and people who bring something different."
Škorjanec emphasised that introducing new professionals "means the show never gets stale" and helps maintain audience engagement. His comments come from personal experience, having left the show in 2022 to focus on family life before becoming the first professional to return after leaving two years later.
Impact on the Professional Dancers
The reported changes have already had tangible consequences. Cypriot dancer Michelle Tsiakkas, who joined Strictly in 2022, quit the 2026 professionals tour shortly after news of the cast cull surfaced, seemingly in response to the decision.
Among those reportedly departing are significant figures in Strictly history. Karen Hauer stands as the show's longest-serving professional, having debuted in 2010 and partnered with celebrities ranging from late Hairy Bikers chef Dave Myers to Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing, with whom she finished as runner-up.
Gorka Márquez, who joined in 2016, reached three finals with celebrity partners Alexandra Burke, Maisie Smith, and Helen Skelton, and met his partner Gemma Atkinson on the show. Luba Mushtuk first appeared eight years ago but hasn't been partnered with a celebrity in recent seasons, while Nadiya Bychkova, who joined in 2017, has never reached the final despite competing with notable celebrities.
Dancers Who Will Remain
Reports indicate that Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will remain with the show, though neither will have celebrity partners this season. Jones, the ex-husband of fellow professional Katya Jones, has competed three times since 2017, while Xu made headlines after being left without a partner in 2025 following her memorable partnership with Will Mellor in 2024.
Xu expressed initial disappointment about not receiving a celebrity partner, telling Instagram followers: "In the very beginning, when I received the message, it did upset me and I do feel disappointed." However, she noted she was "good because" she remained "part of the Strictly family" and would participate in group performances.
Future of the Show
Beyond the professional dancer changes, significant questions remain about who will replace hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Frontrunner contenders reportedly include The One Show's Alex Jones and Zoe Ball, who previously hosted the companion series Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two.
The BBC has told media outlets that official announcements regarding this year's professionals and new hosts will be made "in due course." As Strictly Come Dancing prepares for another season, the organisation appears committed to refreshing its format while maintaining the elements that have made it one of Britain's most beloved television programmes.
