Axed Strictly Come Dancing star Michelle Tsiakkas wanted 'more time' on show
Former Strictly Come Dancing pro dancer Michelle Tsiakkas, who was recently axed from the programme, wanted to have "more time" on the BBC Latin and ballroom series to show fans what she "can do".
Michelle Tsiakkas wanted to have "more time" on Strictly Come Dancing to show fans what she "can do".
The 30-year-old professional dancer has taken to social media to update fans about her Strictly exit, following reports that Karen Hauer, 43, Gorka Marquez, 35, and Nadiya Bychkova and Luba Mushtuk, both 36, will also not return for this year's series of the BBC Latin and ballroom show.
Michelle wrote in an Instagram statement: "Hi everyone, I wanted to share an update with you.
"I won't be returning to Strictly this year.
"This has been an emotional time for me because Strictly has been a big part of my life, not just over the past 4 years, but for as long as I can remember. It's a show that I'll always hold close to my heart.
"I want to thank the team for being supportive during this period, offering help and giving me the time and space to talk things through and process the news.
"Of course, as professionals on the show we can never assume our places are guaranteed, but I hoped to have more time.
"I wish I could have shown you more of what I can do, but I'm grateful for every experience and every chance I had to share my passion and connect with the audience. (sic)"
Michelle also reaffirmed her decision to withdraw from the upcoming Strictly pro tour in May.
The star admitted she wouldn't have been able to give fans her "very best", following her axing from the BBC show.
She added: "I've also had to make the very hard decision to pull out from the Pro Tour in May.
"I was really looking forward to performing for you all and sharing the stage with my friends, but I know that right now I wouldn't have been able to give you my very best, and you deserve the best.
"After reflection, I believe this was the best decision for me, and your understanding and support have meant a lot."
Michelle added in the caption: "A chapter ends, but a new one begins
"Forever grateful for your love and support..."
Michelle recently revealed she was axed from Strictly in a 30-minute online Zoom meeting with an executive producer, which left her "heartbroken".
She told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "I didn’t see it coming. I thought I had more time. When she told me I wasn’t coming back, there was a moment of shock. I felt my story was unfinished.
"It felt out of the blue. It was very tough. I was heartbroken. I went through so many emotions. I gave my life to Strictly.
"It’s like grief. There are many stages to it, many emotions - sadness, confusion and frustration."
