Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova ‘axed for 2020 series’

Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova has been told she won’t be paired with a celebrity in the upcoming 2020 series, reports claim.

The 31-year-old Ukrainian bombshell will be limited to backing dancing for the upcoming 18th series – which is set to feature celebs including comedian Bill Bailey and Radio 1 host Clara Amfo.

Nadiya has featured on Strictly since series 15 back in 2017 where she was garnered with EastEnders hunk Davood Ghadami.

While in the 2018 series she was paired with Blue singer Lee Ryan, and last year she was paired with football star David James.

Over the years, Nadiya has championed giving the illusion of romance with her dance partners, previously declaring: “We must be going in the right direction. That’s how it should look.”

But her acting skills could be to blame for her being given the chop from the front line up for the new series – which kicks off next month.

A source told The Sun on Sunday: “Nadiya is obviously gutted not to have a partner on the show this year.

“She’s wondering if it was a mistake to adopt such a flirtatious approach to her partners.

“Bosses really want this year’s show to be scandal-free. There is a huge emphasis on everyone being professional.”

The BBC could have their work cut out for them if they do hope to limit back-stage affairs, romances and break-ups.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood has already conceded that he thinks coronavirus health and safety measures will lead to the “most intense” Strictly curse yet, arguing lockdown will make pros and stars feel closer.

While it could even be argued that the curse has already struck – as Good Morning Britain star Ranvir Singh revealed she had split from her husband days after being unveiled as a 2020 contstant.

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