Strictly Come Dancing star Nikita Kuzmin is being flooded with support after announcing the death of his grandfather. The 28-year-old Ukrainian dancer took to Instagram earlier today (Wednesday, May 13) to share loving photographs of the pair spending time together over the years. The beloved BBC star wrote: "Looking at these pictures, my heart is beating so fast, and I'm not sure what to write or how to even begin expressing how much I love you. Just memories of when I thought you were the fastest walker in the world, and how, when I was a teenager, I was proud of speeding past you, but you still were the quickest grandad in town.

"But especially how much you always took care of us, no matter what, always there."

Nikita concluded the sad post with " ", which translates as: "I love you, Grandpa."

Taking to the comments section to send their condolences, Tasha Ghouri responded with two red heart emojis as did Strictly musician Tommy Blaize. EastEnders star Tamzin Outhwaite penned: "Love this tribute Nikita. Sad for you darling but you are so loved."

Someone else said: "I am so sorry ,am sure he was so very proud of you. Sending lots of love." Another said: "So very sorry for the loss of your Grandad."

Nikita joined the professional line-up for Strictly in 2021 and was quick to become a fan-favourite. Over the years, he has been paired up with Tilly Ramsay, Ellie Simmonds, Layton Williams, Sam Quek and Amber Davies.

While he has never won the series, he's been in touching distance of the prestigious Glitterball Trophy on two occasions, with Layton and Amber.

Prior to joining the show, the dancer appeared on the German version of Strictly called Let's Dance, in 2020. He is also a six-time Italian Champion in Latin and Ballroom dance.