Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Pasha Kovalev has shared the emotional toll of his decision to leave the iconic BBC show. Having joined the programme in 2011 and competing for eight series, Pasha’s journey was filled with unforgettable moments, not least meeting his future wife, Rachel Riley, during the 2013 series.
Their partnership on Strictly blossomed into romance following the series, culminating in their marriage in 2019. Together, they now raise two daughters, Maven and Noa. Pasha’s last appearance on Strictly was in 2018, when he placed second alongside former Pussycat Dolls singer Ashley Roberts.
In an interview with Heat magazine, Pasha reflected on his departure, stating it felt like the “right moment” to move on. “My heart was torn into pieces,” he confessed, describing the bittersweet challenge of saying goodbye to celebrity partners each season. “Part of your heart stays with each person, and the next year you have to find new energy and love for someone else. I had to make one of those loves my wife — Rachel said it was part of her Strictly contract.”
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Pasha described Rachel as his soulmate, expressing deep happiness with their life together. Recently, Rachel hinted they might be done expanding their family. The couple’s daughters have already begun dancing themselves, with Maven preparing for her first ballet exam and Noa gearing up for her first show. Rachel playfully shared that the girls “always get Pasha to throw them around the kitchen,” showing a family passion for dance.
Beyond dance, Rachel has described Pasha as her “sanctuary,” especially after witnessing a friend’s traumatic struggle with domestic abuse. In a candid interview with The I newspaper, she highlighted the importance of their secure and loving partnership. “I am so lucky to have a lovely home and to set a good example for our children of what a healthy relationship looks like,” she said.
Rachel further explained how their relationship thrives on their differences. “Pasha is really solid. We respect each other, make each other laugh, and have engaging conversations despite our different backgrounds and outlooks,” she noted. These contrasts, she says, help them continuously grow together.
As for their current projects, Rachel will return to TV in the Christmas special of 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown airing on Channel 4. Meanwhile, Pasha stars in the theatrical production Legends of the Dancefloor alongside fellow former Strictly professionals Ian Waite, Vincent Simone, James Jordan, and Brendan Cole. Next year, they will tour with their new show, Vegas: After Hours, across the country.