'Delighted' Nadiya Bychkova set to 'return to Strictly fold with It Takes Two role'
The spin-off show returns on MondayNadiya Bychkova is reportedly returning to the Strictly fold with a recurring place on It Takes Two.
The Sun reports that the former professional dancer is being lined up for the spin-off’s new panel format. A source said Nadiya was “really excited” about appearing again and delighted to remain connected with the programme.
The 37-year-old left Strictly’s professional dancer line-up earlier this year, after joining the competition in 2017.
Why Nadiya Bychkova fits the It Takes Two panel
The source described Nadiya as “a much-loved member of the Strictly family” with valuable experience for the panel.
Her credentials combine professional dance expertise with first-hand knowledge of appearing in Strictly’s celebrity partnerships. The source added that her previous role means she can offer strong insight on the programme.
For viewers, her return brings a familiar Strictly figure back into the competition’s wider conversation. It also creates a different role for Nadiya following her departure from the show’s main professional line-up.
The arrangement would allow her to assess the competition without returning as one of its professional partners. Her observations will instead be shaped by years spent inside the contest.
Nadiya Bychkova’s recent It Takes Two appearance
Nadiya has already made one panel appearance during the current series. Last Friday, she joined previous finalists Jay McGuiness and Kimberley Walsh for the spin-off discussion.
She was also seen in the audience for the main live show on Saturday, maintaining a visible connection with the series. The source claimed viewers enjoyed Nadiya’s panel appearance, while the BBC wanted her to contribute again.
The reported arrangement is therefore a panel comeback, rather than a return as one of the professional dancers. It gives Nadiya a fresh way to remain part of the Strictly family.
When Nadiya Bychkova returns to It Takes Two
According to the source, Nadiya will next appear on Monday. The insider claimed: “She’s delighted to be back in the Strictly fold and is really excited about appearing on the panel again.”
The BBC reportedly hopes she will make more panel appearances as the competition continues. Her earlier visit came on Friday alongside Jay and Kimberley.
Read more: Strictly host Johannes Radebe’s ‘annoying’ habit sparks complaints during first results show
On Saturday night, Delta Goodrem and partner Kai Widdrington topped the combined leaderboard. Graeme Hall and Lacey Turner followed them in the standings.
Chris Appleton became the first celebrity eliminated after losing the dance-off with professional partner Amy Dowden. Judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all voted to save Jaime Winstone.
The BBC has been contacted for comment on the Nadiya Bychkova claims.
Strictly: It Takes Two airs weeknights from 6.30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer
This article was produced with the assistance of AI technology to synthesise source reporting and structured data. It has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by our human editorial team before publication.
