HEARTBREAKING: Strictly Come Dancing Star Gives an Emotional “Goodbye” After a 10-Year Journey Comes to a Close.
Strictly Come Dancing fans have been left emotional after one of the show’s longest-serving professionals officially closed the curtain on her decade-long journey.
Luba Mushtuk has now taken her final bow as part of the Strictly family, marking the end of an era after spending ten years on the beloved BBC dance competition.
The professional dancer first announced her departure earlier this year, revealing that she would be leaving the programme ahead of the 2026 series. At the time, Luba spoke of her gratitude for the opportunities and memories she had gained during her years on the show, while also expressing excitement about pursuing new ambitions away from the Strictly ballroom.
Although she had already confirmed her exit, fans were still able to see her perform during the Strictly Professionals tour, which travelled across the UK throughout April and May, including performances at The Lowry in Salford and London’s iconic Palladium.
Now, the dancer has officially marked her final appearance as a member of the Strictly cast.
Over the weekend, Luba joined fellow professional Vito Coppola at a special event where the emotional farewell unfolded in front of fans. In a touching moment, Vito presented her with flowers before the pair shared one last dance around the floor and took their final bows together.
Sharing clips from the occasion on social media, Luba confirmed that her Strictly chapter had finally come to an end, writing that it was “officially a wrap” and thanking supporters for their love throughout the journey.
Her departure comes during a period of major change for Strictly Come Dancing. Several familiar faces have already left ahead of the new season, with Gorka Marquez, Michelle Tsiakkas, Karen Hauer and Nadiya Bychkova also stepping away from the programme.
The BBC has confirmed that new professional dancers will be recruited to refresh the line-up before the show returns in September, while viewers will also see a new presenting team following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman after the 2025 series.
Luba joined Strictly in 2016 and went on to partner a number of celebrity contestants during her time on the show, including actor Adam Thomas and television presenter Nick Knowles.
While her time in the ballroom may be over, the heartfelt reaction from fans suggests her impact on the programme will not be forgotten anytime soon. For many viewers, Luba’s farewell marks the end of one of Strictly’s most memorable chapters.
