Nadiya Bychkova makes first public appearance since Kai split and says ‘we’re ready’ for new series despite scandal
NADIYA Bychkova made her first public appearance since her dramatic split from Kai Waddingham.
We previously revealed that the pair had called time on their relationship after going on tour together.
Strictly Come Dancing has faced a slew of scandals over recent months after Giovanni Pernice faced a misconduct probe.
Several of his celebrity partners made complaints to the BBC about his ‘militant’ training methods.
Fellow professional Graziano Di Prima faced a scandal of his own, after he was sacked by bosses for gross misconduct.
He was accused of – and later admitted to – kicking former Love Island personality Zara McDermott in rehearsals.
Nadiya, 34, wanted to put the drama of the dancing competition behind her, as she said her fellow dancers are still very much gearing up for the new season.
Despite the shadow of various scandals, Strictly Come Dancing is still set to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
The professional dancer couldn’t help but stand firm as she admitted that the roster of professionals were still raring to go.
She declared: “We’re ready.”
The doting mum looked stunning in a cream suit as she made her first public appearance at the premiere of The Harold and the Purple Crayon.
She was supported by her daughter as she made her way into Leicester Square Vue on Sunday.
When asked how she was feeling, she admitted: “I’m doing great.
“We’re having a lovely morning. So glad everyone is enjoying the show!”
The poster couple of the show decided to split after battling off-stage problems whilst living and training together 24/7.
A source revealed that no third party was involved, and pals say they simply “grew apart” after two “blissful” years together.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.
“Kai and Nadiya seemed like the most perfect couple and have been so, so blissfully in love.
“But the pressures of touring – being in each other’s space 24/7, and the stress of performing a sell-out show eventually took its toll.
“They had been drifting emotionally for a while, and things actually came to a head during the tour – ironically called Behind The Magic – which, obviously, was incredibly problematic.
“They had to dance sexily and romantically together for days and nights on end, whilst trying to work through their off-stage problems. It must have been exhausting on every level.
“But they didn’t want to let down their fans, and were consummate professionals: they knew the show, quite literally, must go on.
“After a rough few weeks, they sat down together once the tour was over and decided to call it quits. It was a mutual decision.”
Rumoured Strictly 2024 line-up so far...
Chris McCausland – Comedian, 47
GK Barry – YouTube star, 24
Dave Fishwick – Businessman and TV star, 53
Martin Roberts – TV presenter, 60
Danny Cipriani – Rugby ace, 36
Roman Kemp – TV and radio presenter, 31
Hannah Waddingham – Actress, 49
Helen Worth – Actress, 73