By Admin 
Introduction
When professional dancer Pasha Kovalev left Strictly Come Dancing in 2019, fans were left wondering: What’s next? After nearly a decade lighting up the BBC ballroom, Pasha exited the spotlight in search of a slower, more meaningful chapter in life. But has he disappeared entirely from the public eye? Not quite. From raising a family with Rachel Riley to stage tours and choreography, Pasha remains very much involved in the world of performance — just on his own terms.
This article explores what Pasha Kovalev is doing now — professionally, personally, and everything in between.
1. Pasha’s Glittering Career: A Quick Recap
Born 19 January 1980 in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia, Pasha began ballroom dancing at age 8. His first major public exposure came via the American show So You Think You Can Dance in 2007, where he and then-dance partner Anya Garnis impressed judges and viewers alike.
In 2011, Pasha joined the UK’s Strictly Come Dancing, becoming a fan favorite over eight seasons. He reached the finals four times and won the coveted Glitterball Trophy in 2014 with Caroline Flack. His talent, grace, and respectful demeanor set him apart in a field known for high-energy personalities.
2. Why Did Pasha Leave Strictly?
In February 2019, Pasha officially announced his departure from Strictly, saying:
“After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting one glitter ball, it’s time for me to find a new challenge and explore new horizons.”
This decision, while sudden, was not unexpected. At the time, his partner Rachel Riley was expecting their first child. Pasha reportedly wanted to spend more time with family and escape the intense physical and emotional demands of competitive dancing.
His Goals Post-Strictly
- More family time
- Opportunities outside reality television
- Dance tours and creative direction
- Avoiding burnout in an intensely demanding industry
3. What Is Pasha Kovalev Doing Now?
Pasha didn’t walk away from dance entirely. He just redefined his involvement in it.
🔸 A. Live Tours and Stage Productions
Since leaving Strictly, Pasha has focused on stage dance shows, including solo projects and collaborative dance tours with other Strictly alumni. He has performed across the UK in theaters and continues to work behind the scenes in:
- Choreography
- Tour production
- Guest appearances at dance galas
He also collaborates with Rachel Riley occasionally for charity and public events, including a few appearances on family-friendly dance fundraisers and TV features.
🔸 B. Choreography and Creative Work
In addition to performing, Pasha is said to be more involved in creative direction and dance instruction. These include:
- Helping choreograph routines for dance competitions and amateur events
- Participating in workshops and private masterclasses
- Mentoring young dancers in the UK and Europe
Though not widely publicized, these private coaching and consultancy roles allow him to continue dancing without being constantly in the media spotlight.
🔸 C. Family Life with Rachel Riley
One of the most significant parts of Pasha’s “now” is fatherhood.
He and Rachel Riley, whom he met on Strictly in 2013, got married in June 2019 in Las Vegas. The couple now have two daughters:
- Maven Aria Riley Kovaleva (born December 2019)
- Noa Riley Kovaleva (born November 2021)
Rachel has been open about their life together, often sharing glimpses of parenting and home routines. The family resides in London and appears to enjoy a quieter, less flashy lifestyle.
🔸 D. Stepping Back from TV
Since leaving Strictly, Pasha has made very few television appearances. He’s intentionally kept a lower profile, avoiding celebrity reality shows, competitions, or mainstream acting roles.
When asked about his decision to stay out of reality TV, Rachel Riley shared that they both value a more grounded, private lifestyle. This explains why Pasha isn’t seen jumping into reality shows like some of his former colleagues.
4. Media Spotlight: Is He Still Famous?
While Pasha isn’t a regular on British television anymore, he’s still well-respected in dance and performance circles. His fanbase, especially those who followed his Strictly journey, remains loyal and curious about his latest work.
He occasionally pops up on fan forums, social media discussions, and Strictly retrospectives or specials. He’s often praised for:
- His calm demeanor
- Commitment to dance
- Strong family values
5. Professional Life vs Personal Growth
Pasha’s transition away from Strictly is often held up as an example of a career built around intentional life choices. He could’ve taken the easy route—becoming a judge, entering another competition show, or writing a tell-all memoir. Instead, he chose:
- Creative independence
- A family-first approach
- Long-term fulfillment over short-term fame
This rare decision has earned him praise as someone who respects his craft and personal boundaries equally.
6. Has He Been Married Before?
Many still ask, “Has Pasha Kovalev been married before Rachel Riley?”
The answer is no.
Before Rachel, Pasha had a long-time dance and romantic partnership with Anya Garnis (his So You Think You Can Dance partner), but the two never married. Rachel is his first and only wife. Their chemistry and mutual respect have often been highlighted in interviews and media coverage.
7. His Legacy Beyond Strictly
Pasha may have left Strictly, but his legacy remains:
- One of the most technically skilled professionals in the show’s history
- A beloved dance partner for stars like Caroline Flack, Ashley Roberts, and Kimberley Walsh
- Known for elegant choreography and respectful teaching style
- Viewed as a “class act” who rarely courted drama or tabloid controversy
In the world of ballroom dance and television, this balance is rare — and is part of what has made Pasha’s post-Strictly career so unique.
8. Public Comments and Latest Appearances
Pasha doesn’t post frequently on social media but has been seen occasionally supporting Rachel Riley’s advocacy efforts, including her stance against online abuse and antisemitism.
He also recently performed at a BBC Children in Need charity event in London in 2023 and has quietly taken part in Strictly Come Dancing alumni reunions and one-off special episodes.
9. Rachel Riley’s Supportive Role
Rachel Riley often speaks about the emotional support Pasha gives her, especially during difficult times in the media. In interviews, she’s praised him as:
“An incredibly calming presence… supportive, thoughtful, and deeply family-oriented.”
Their relationship appears to be rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a love of dance and education (Rachel holds a degree in mathematics from Oxford).
10. Conclusion: Where Is Pasha Now?
So, what is Pasha Kovalev doing now?
He’s living a life of intention. He’s:
- Performing in selected live dance shows
- Working as a mentor and choreographer
- Raising two young daughters with Rachel Riley
- Choosing privacy and fulfillment over celebrity
Pasha Kovalev remains a respected figure in the dance world, and his decision to step out of the spotlight may be the most graceful move of all.
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