Brief
Katya Jones says she nearly quit Strictly after heartbreak in 2025
The professional dancer says a 2025 quarter‑final loss left her ‘heartbroken’ and she considered quitting before deciding to stay for her 11th year.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Katya Jones, a professional dancer on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing since 2016, told the Daily Mail she almost quit the show after feeling "heartbroken" by her 2025 quarter‑final exit.
What happened
In the 2025 series, Jones was paired with actor Lewis Cope. The couple were eliminated in the quarter‑finals after a dance‑off against Love Island star Amber Davies and professional Nikita Kuzmin. Their loss left Jones questioning whether she could return for another season.
What the reports add
The interview notes that the 2025 elimination was a turning point for Jones, prompting doubts about continuing into her 11th year. She said she wondered, "Can I face it again?" and described the experience as "a lot of doubt". The article also mentions a major shake‑up earlier in the year, with long‑standing professionals Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova and Luba Mushtuk being axed.
What was said
Jones said, "Well, it's my 11th year and I'm still here!" and explained that she stays only if she still feels genuine passion for the job. She added, "Every time I ask myself, and if the answer is still yes, I'll be here doing it." She also reflected on last year's disappointment, calling it "very heartbroken".
How it came about
After the 2025 quarter‑final loss, Jones considered leaving but ultimately decided to remain for the 2026 series. She is now partnered with football YouTuber John Nellis, a pairing she says has given her a renewed sense of purpose. Jones described their early training sessions as a reminder of the impact the show can have beyond the studio.
Key facts
- Katya Jones was paired with Lewis Cope in the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing series. (dailymail.co.uk)
- The pair were eliminated in the quarter‑finals after a dance‑off with Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin. (dailymail.co.uk)
- Jones considered quitting the show after feeling "heartbroken" by the 2025 exit. (dailymail.co.uk)
- She will return for the 2026 series partnered with football YouTuber John Nellis. (dailymail.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] dailymail.co.uk — originally reported as “'Heartbroken' Katya Jones reveals she almost QUIT as a Strictly pro”
