Strictly Come Dancing’s Pasha Kovalev announced yesterday that he is quitting.
The Russian professional has been a part of the show for eight years, raising the Glitterball with celeb winner Caroline Flack in 2014.
A year earlier, he fell in love with current girlfriend Rachel Riley when they were paired together on the BBC show.
News broke of his departure on the official Strictly Twitter account: “Sadly after eight incredible series, the brilliant @PashaKovalev has decided to leave #Strictly.
“Pasha, from all of us, thank you for your amazing choreography and routines over the years.
“You’ll be sorely missed!”
Pasha added on his own social media: “After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting 1 glitter ball, it’s time for me to find a new challenge so I’ve decided to make last year – my final season on Strictly.
“I’ve had 8 fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is.
“My biggest thanks go to all the members of the public who’ve supported me so much over these years – I look forward to seeing you all on the Strictly Pro-Tour this spring, and for many future adventures to come.”
Fans are gutted, of course!