Karen Hauer Bids Farewell to Strictly Come Dancing, Expresses Gratitude to Fans
The ballroom floor at Strictly Come Dancing has seen a significant departure, with long-serving professional dancer Karen Hauer confirming her exit from the beloved BBC show. The 43-year-old Venezuelan star, who joined the flagship programme in 2012, had become the longest-serving professional dancer on the show following Anton Du Beke’s transition to a judging role.
Throughout her tenure, Karen graced the dance floor with a variety of celebrity partners, including Simon Rimmer, Eddie Kadi, Jayde Adams, Chris Ramsey, and most recently, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. While she never ultimately lifted the coveted Glitterball trophy, Karen came close in 2014, reaching the final with partner Mark Wright. Her dynamic performances and undeniable passion made her a fan favourite, and her departure has understandably resonated deeply with the show’s dedicated viewership.
Announcing her decision on Saturday, Karen stated that she felt it was “the right time for [her] to close this chapter and take on new projects.” This news, while emotional, did not entirely come as a surprise to many fans. Reports of a potential “mass cull” of professional dancers had been circulating for weeks, with Karen’s name frequently mentioned among those rumoured to be leaving. Other professionals reportedly affected by these changes include Luba Mushtuk, Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Márquez, and Michelle Tsiakkas.
Following her confirmation, Karen took to her Instagram Stories to share a heartfelt message with her supporters. Overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and well wishes, she expressed her profound gratitude.
“I just wanted to come on here and say a big, massive thank you… Wow,” Karen began, her voice tinged with emotion. “I’ve been reading your messages, and, honestly, I am absolutely overwhelmed, in the best kind of way, I promise. There is so much kindness out there, and I almost don’t know what to do with it all.”
She continued to acknowledge the impact of her fans’ support: “Please, I want you guys to know that I see you and I feel every word. I really didn’t expect this kind of outpour of love, and it’s actually made me stop for a second and feel something that I don’t always give myself, which is pride. I’m extremely proud of myself. Like, ‘OK, kid, you’re doing alright!’, so thank you for that, for your energy, your warmth, your support; it really stays with me.”
Concluding her message, Karen promised to continue entertaining her audience in new capacities. “I promise, I’ll keep showing up, I’ll keep entertaining you all, and I’ll keep sending all that positive, kindness, love back to you all,” she said. “Sending you guys a big, massive hug, and I’ll see you guys around.”
Karen’s public statement comes after she candidly spoke about the “stressful” period leading up to her announcement. Attending the LitPet’s Sunday Dog Social in London with her rescue dog Marley, she revealed that her four canine companions have been a significant source of comfort.
“It’s been a terribly stressful and emotional time, and my four dogs have really helped me get through it,” she shared, as reported by the Daily Mail. “What’s just happened is part of life and the stresses that go with it. My dogs really feel it when I’m stressed, and they have really helped me get through this.”
Sources close to the situation had previously indicated that Karen was “obviously very upset” upon being informed that her Strictly contract would not be renewed. However, there was also an acknowledgement of her resilience and her desire to “remain positive about the future.” Her expertise as a choreographer and her involvement in the fitness industry were highlighted as areas where she can now focus more intensely.
The impact of these changes appears to have been significant for several professionals. Michelle Tsiakkas, a more recent addition to the lineup, reportedly withdrew from the Professionals Live Tour. Luba Mushtuk is said to be “in hiding” and unavailable for comment, while Nadiya Bychkova is reportedly “distraught.”
The departures are being framed as part of a broader “out with the old and in with the new” strategy for the show. Rumours even suggest that Aljaž Škorjanec might not return, although Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe are reportedly confirmed to stay. Further speculation indicates that Nancy Xu and Neil Jones may not be assigned celebrity partners for the 2026 season, though they are expected to continue participating in group numbers.
When approached for comment regarding the upcoming series, a BBC spokesperson stated that plans would be announced “in due course.” This year was already anticipated to be one of considerable change, with long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman also stepping down in December, citing it as the “right time” and their mutual decision to “go together.”
The search for their replacements has been ongoing for months, with reports suggesting the possibility of a third presenter joining the hosting team.
Executive producers are reportedly looking to inject fresh energy into the long-running competition, aiming for a “shake-up” to usher in a “new chapter” amidst recent controversies. Chemistry tests for potential new presenters, initially scheduled for January, have reportedly been postponed until April.
A shortlist of seven potential candidates has been narrowed down from an initial ten, with Alan Carr, Amanda Holden, and another Alan Carr reportedly withdrawing their interest. The current contenders are said to include Zoe Ball, Alison Hammond, Rylan Clark, Alex Jones, Emma Willis, Fleur East, and Angela Scanlon. Insiders suggest that “nothing is off the table” as the show seeks to revitalise its on-screen magic.
