STRICTLY Come Dancing professional Luba Mushtuk has revealed she is spending Christmas completely alone.
The dancer is taking part in the BBC show’s Christmas special, but says she is taking some much-needed “time alone” on the day itself.
Luba appeared on Loose Women earlier today alongside actor Nicholas Bailey, who is her dance partner for the upcoming Strictly special.
And while Nicholas told the panel of his family-filled Christmas plans, it was a different story when the question turned to Luba.
After being asked what she is doing for Christmas, Luba replied: “I am painting my walls. I am, by choice, on my own.
“I’m going to have a lovely time, I think some people would love, actually, to do what i am going to do.
She continued: “But I am embracing it. I just felt like I need some time, on my own, have some ice cream. Watch some movies.”
Luba joined the show as a professional dancer in 2018, but wasn’t in this year’s main show line-up with a celebrity partner.
At the time, sources told The Sun that Luba and other pro’s without partners were “gutted”.
A TV source said: “Luba and Nancy were gutted not to be in a celebrity pairing and competing on the show this year.
“They are, understandably, disappointed, but realise that not everyone is able to get a celebrity partner every year.
“They will still be a big part of the series and in all the group numbers, as well as getting some extra dances in the main show.
“They’ll also be able to help in training and with choreography.”
As well as Nicholas, the celebrities taking part in this year’s Christmas Special are Scarlett Moffatt, Brian McFadden, Babatunde Aléshé, Melanie Blatt and Jodie Ounsley.
And in an early Christmas treat, fans have been given a glimpse of the group routine, which include the celebs, their pro partners and the judges.
The dance is set at a bar, with the women dressed in beautiful gold sparkling gowns while the men are dashing in an array of tuxedos.
Head judge Shirley Ballas is seen laughing alongside Anton Du Beke as they sit together, while Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood share a toast opposite.
Craig is also seen wheeling a drinks trolley onto the dance floor as the group perform.
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special airs Christmas Day at 5.30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
