The Independent·2 min read·easy

Strictly pro Katya Jones says she considered quitting series after ‘heartbreaking’ elimination

J
Jacob Stolworthy
Strictly pro Katya Jones says she considered quitting series after ‘heartbreaking’ elimination
✦AI Summary

Professional dancer Katya Jones revealed she considered leaving the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing' following a disappointing elimination last year. She has since returned for the 2026 series, where she is currently a favorite to win.

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The story highlights the high-pressure environment of reality television and the personal toll it takes on long-term performers.

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‘I wasn’t sure if I could face it again,’ dancer said

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Strictly Come Dancing professional Katya Jones was so “heartbroken” by her elimination last year that she almost quit the BBC show.

Jones was partnered with actor Lewis Cope and they were favourites to win the 2025 series. However, they made a shock exit from the competition in the quarter finals, and Jones has said she “wasn’t sure if she could face” the potential disappointment again when asked to return for the new series.

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