Pro dancer leaves after 8 years
behind-the-scenes teams who make Strictly the amazing production it is.”
Neil, 36, said it was a “sad day”, calling Kovalev a “true gentleman on and off the floor”. He added: “I have enjoyed every moment with you.”
Fellow Strictly pro Karen Clifton, 36, said: “Gonna miss you so much – an allaround gentleman and a fantastic dancer to work with. Love you, buddy.”
Dancer Amy Dowden, 27, said: “Pasha, a true gent and beautiful dancer who will be so missed on Strictly Come Dancing. Wishing you all the love and happiness on your next venture.”
Kovalev met his partner, Countdown star Rachel Riley, 33, when they were paired up on the show in 2013.
Last year, he reached the final with Pussycat Doll star Ashley Roberts, 37.
A spokesman for the BBC show said: “The professional dancer line-up for 2019 will be announced in due course.” STRICTLY Come Dancing professional Pasha Kovalev has quit the show after eight years, saying it is time to find a “new challenge”.
The Latin dancer, 39, has competed in four finals and lifted the Glitterball trophy once, with Love Island host Caroline Flack, 39, in 2014.
Kovalev is leaving the show but will still appear on Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals tour this spring. Insiders say that dancer Neil Jones, 36 – married to fellow pro Katya Jones, 29 – could be promoted to take his place, but it is still “early days”.
With Rachel Riley Kovalev said: “After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting one Glitterball, it’s time for me to find a new challenge, and so I’ve decided to make last year my final season on Strictly.
“I’ve had eight fantastic years full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and