Nikita Kuzmin, the Ukrainian‑born professional dancer now a fixture on BBC’s *Strictly Come Dancing*, reflects on the unlikely chain of events that brought him to the show’s 2021 lineup and why he plans to stay despite a sweeping professional shake‑up.. The dancer, who has reached the final twice and is gearing up for a solo tour, says the opportunity was a "blessing" that reshaped his career.

From Ukraine to Italy: Kuzmin’s early migration at age nine

Born in Ukraine, Kuzmin moved to Italy when he was nine, a relocation that exposed him to a vibrant ballroom scene and set the stage for his later success. The Daily Mail notes that this early cultral shift gave him the technical foundation that would later attract the eyes of *Strictly* scouts.

2021 debut on Strictly and two finals appearances with Amber Davies and Tilly Ramsay

Joining *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2021, Kuzmin quickly became a fan favourite , partnering with celebrities such as Amber Davies, Layton Williams and Tilly Ramsay. according to the source, he reached the competition’s final twice,cementing his reputation as a versatile professional capable of adapting to varied celebrity partners.

BBC’s 2024 professional shake‑up leaves Kuzmin untouched

This year the BBC announced a major overhaul, axing five long‑standing professionals from the show’s roster . despite the cuts, Kuzmin confirmed he is “not going anywhere” and will remain on the line‑up “as long as they want me back.” The report highlights that his continued presence underscores both his popularity and the network’s confidence in his drawing power.

Solo tour ‘Burn The Floor: Supernova’ announced ahead of new season

While preparing for the next *Strictly* series, Kuzmin revealed he will headline a solo tour titled *Burn The Floor: Supernova*. He told The Daily Mail that without *Strictly* he “wouldn’t be where I am today,” and the tour represents a chance to showcase his choreography beynod the television format.

How does BBC decide which pros to cut?

The source does not detail the criteria behind the BBC’s recent professional cuts, leaving open questions about whether viewership metrics, contract negotiations or internal politics drove the decision... Moreover, it is unclear if Kuzmin’s contract includes any performance‑based clauses that might protect him from future axings.