BBC Strictly Come Dancing star 'badly hurt' in freak accident ahead of weekend shows

Strictly Come Dancing has been hit by a fresh crisis as another of its stars suffered an injury. Professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova, who teamed up with Olympian Tom Dean for the 2024 season, sustained a broken thumb during practice.

The 35 year old Ukrainian-Slovenian dance pro is out of the main contest but continues to perform in group numbers with her fellow dancers. In rehearsals for this weekend's Strictly shows, she fell and damaged her thumb, receiving immediate treatment on-set after the incident, which occurred on Wednesday.

She was reportedly rushed for an X-Ray that confirmed the break and advised to rest. Despite being ruled out of some parts of this weekend's show, Nadiya has been given the green light to appear in certain pre-recorded segments for upcoming broadcasts.

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An insider conveyed to The Sun: "Nadiya was training with the other pros when she fell. Her thumb basically snapped and it looked incredibly painful. Everyone crowded around her."

They continued: "Nadiya's thumb was badly swollen and bruised, but she doesn't want to let anyone down and is adamant she can do the pre-recorded number. A doctor eventually cleared her and she will be able to film, but might be treated with kid gloves by fellow pros," reports the Mirror.

The insider claimed the Ukrainian dancer is maintaining a strong front despite the painful injury, insisting she will persist with her efforts on the show as much as possible.

Nadiya's injury has raised concerns she may soon exit the series, particularly with fans observing her less than cheerful demeanour on the 2024 season following her break up with fellow professional, Kai Widdrington. Engaging in online discussions about perceived on-air unease, one viewer commented: "I truly believe a lot of the pros will end up leaving after this year for various reasons. Nadiya- inevitable, she seems p***** at her treatment this year and years priors and the whole awkwardness with Kai doesn't help."

Another remarked: "Kai and Nadia, personally, I find them utterly forgettable so I can't say I would be sad to see them go if I'm honest." Meanwhile, someone else anticipated: "I imagine Kai will stay if Nadiya leaves."

Additionally, another viewer suggested: "Kai, he's had two great runs so one benched year wouldn't affect that as much especially if they go back to a more even male/female split in celebs next year and he's more likely to stay if Nadiya leaves."

The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment about the incident.