AceShowbiz - Michelle Tsiakkas, a professional dancer from Strictly Come Dancing, has officially withdrawn from the 2026 live tour just weeks before rehearsals were due to begin. The announcement was made via the tour’s official Instagram account, highlighting her decision not to participate in the upcoming Strictly The Professionals 2026 Tour.

The statement expressed disappointment over her departure but also extended well wishes for her future. It confirmed that rehearsals will proceed with other professional dancers including Julian, Vito, Neil, Gorka, Lauren, Jowita, Luba, Alexis, Kai, and Nancy.

This development follows a significant reshuffle within the BBC dance show, which has been undergoing major changes after the recent exits of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Alongside Michelle Tsiakkas, fellow pros Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Márquez have all been removed from the Strictly lineup.

Earlier reports from The Daily Mail revealed that Karen Hauer, who had been a part of Strictly since 2012 and was one of the longest-serving professional dancers, was informed just days ago that her contract would not be renewed. This move appears to be part of a broader strategy by the BBC to refresh the professional dance roster.

Sources have indicated that the decision to cut several established pros was made to introduce new talent following years of scrutiny and controversy surrounding the professional dancers. One insider described the situation as an "out with the old, in with the new" scenario, emphasizing the end of an era for some of the show's familiar faces.

Despite the changes, some professionals like Katya Jones have been retained and even offered new contracts, signaling selective continuity within the revamped cast. Meanwhile, Neil Jones and Nancy Xu are expected to remain involved but without celebrity dance partners this year, potentially participating in group performances instead.

The news has been met with mixed emotions among those affected. Karen was reportedly upset upon hearing the news but remains optimistic about future opportunities in choreography and fitness, fields she is actively pursuing outside the show.

As the live tour was scheduled to begin in April, the sudden withdrawal of Michelle Tsiakkas adds to the turbulence surrounding this year’s Strictly season. The BBC is moving forward with rehearsals and preparations with a reshaped roster, aiming to restore confidence in the programme amid ongoing changes behind the scenes.