Major Strictly shake-up as at least THREE pro dancers axed by bosses ahead of new series

STRICTLY bosses have axed at least three pro dancers from the scandal-hit show ahead of the new series.

The cull has seen long-running cast members Gorka Marquez, 35, and Luba Mushtuk, 36, purged.

Luba Mushtuk has been axed by Strictly bossesCredit: BBC
Relative newcomer Michelle Tsiakkas has also goneCredit: BBC
Spaniard Gorka, who has been on the series for a decade and featured in three finals, will also leaveCredit: BBC

Relative newcomer Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, has also gone.

Producers want a “fresh start” for the BBC1 show with new presenters also set to be announced soon.

A source said: “There are major changes taking place with dancers having meetings about their contracts over the next few weeks.

“Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era.”

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Spaniard Gorka, who met wife Gemma Atkinson, 41, on the show in 2017, has been on the series for a decade and featured in three finals.

Russian Luba joined eight years ago, but has not been given a partner in recent years.

Cypriot Michelle was paired with EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick in 2024.

But he caused controversy when he used an ableist slur backstage in Blackpool.

Long-running hosts of the show Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have also left the show.

Strictly has been hit by a string of scandals — including claims of drug taking and abusive behaviour towards contestants by pro dancers.

The BBC said: “Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course.”

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