Third Strictly pro announces exit from upcoming series
Luba Mushtuk is the latest to quit!
Following the news earlier this week that both Karen Hauer and Nadiya Bychkova have decided to leave the show, yet another professional dancer has announced her exit from Strictly Come Dancing.
Luba Mushtuk, who has been part of the Strictly team since 2016, won't take part in the 2026 series, with the BBC releasing a statement.
Announcing the news on Friday 27th March, the post read: 'A heartfelt thank you to Luba Mushtuk for her outstanding contribution to Strictly Come Dancing. Since joining in 2016 as an assistant choreographer and stepping into the professional dancer line-up two years later, Luba has been a valued member of the team - bringing professionalism, creativity, and her quality expertise year after year.
'Respected both on and off the dance floor, she has consistently delivered unforgettable routines, captivating audiences with her remarkable talent and signature elegance.
'We are incredibly grateful for her dedication to the programme and for always going above and beyond—whether through the care and commitment she showed her celebrity partners or her warmth and kindness behind the scenes.
'Luba has been, and always will be, a much-loved member of the Strictly family, and we wish her every success in the future'. (sic)
Luba also shared the news with her own followers, telling them: 'With a heart full of gratitude, the time has come for me to step away from Strictly Come Dancing.
'I am deeply grateful for the past 10 years on this beautiful show!
'Thank you for the amazing opportunity and the unforgettable memories.
'It has truly meant the world to me. Now it's time for me to follow my dreams beyond the show, and I'm excited for what the future holds.
'I can't wait to see you all on the Pro Tour and I'm really looking forward to it for one last time.
'With all my love, Luba'. (sic)
During her time on the popular show, Luba has been paired with celebrities such as James Cracknell, Jason Bell, Adam Thomas and Nick Knowles, as well as having a number of appearances on the Christmas special.
The news comes after both Karen Hauer and Nadiya Bychkova announced their departures earlier this week.
The BBC are yet to announce which professional dancers will take part in the 2026 series, as well as not yet confirming who will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman to host the show.
Now read:
Karen Hauer leaves Strictly after 14 years on the show
Nadiya Bychkova announces she's leaving Strictly
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