Karen Hauer leaves Strictly Come Dancing after 14 years on show

After 14 years, Karen Hauer is leaving Strictly Come Dancing. This is the longest time any female professional dancer has stayed on the show.

Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer on the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing', has officially confirmed her departure from the show. This announcement, made via an emotional video shared on social media, arrives after weeks of speculation regarding her future on the programme.

Karen Hauer breaks down in tears as she confirms she has quit Strictly following axed rumours - after 14 years as the show's longest female professional dancer - 1

The 43-year-old Venezuelan–American dancer, who has been a fixture on 'Strictly' for 14 years, stated it was "the right time to close this chapter and take on new projects." Her exit follows reports that she had been "axed" from the professional dancer line-up. Hauer's video, filmed in a dimly lit venue, shows her visibly emotional as she addressed her fans. She expressed that she would "miss everyone who makes the show possible."

Karen Hauer breaks down in tears as she confirms she has quit Strictly following axed rumours - after 14 years as the show's longest female professional dancer - 2

Fellow dancers and show personalities, including Johannes Radebe, judge Shirley Ballas, and Motsi Mabuse, have publicly shared their support and affection for Hauer following her announcement. Former celebrity contestants such as Dr. Punam Krishan and Ore Oduba, alongside EastEnders actor Balvinder Sopal, have also sent messages of goodwill.

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Karen Hauer breaks down in tears as she confirms she has quit Strictly following axed rumours - after 14 years as the show's longest female professional dancer - 3

Hauer's career on 'Strictly' began with a pairing with Westlife singer Nicky Byrne, reaching the quarter-finals in her initial season. She was later paired with Radio 1's Jamie Laing, securing a second-place finish. In her most recent season, she partnered with Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Nitro).

Karen Hauer breaks down in tears as she confirms she has quit Strictly following axed rumours - after 14 years as the show's longest female professional dancer - 4

Hauer's professional dance background includes studying contemporary dance at the Martha Graham school for ten years, starting at the age of nine. She described dancing as an escape and a means of self-expression, particularly during her childhood.

The departure of Hauer, and potentially hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman – whom Hauer jokingly hoped to have more time for lunches with – signals a potential shift for the long-running competition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Karen Hauer leaving Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Hauer said it was the right time to leave after 14 years to focus on new projects. She felt it was time to close this chapter of her career.
Q: How long was Karen Hauer on Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Hauer was a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing for 14 years, making her the longest-serving female professional dancer on the show.
Q: What did Karen Hauer say about leaving Strictly?
She shared an emotional video saying she would miss everyone and that it was time for new projects. She thanked the show for her time there.
Q: Who has supported Karen Hauer after her Strictly announcement?
Many people have supported her, including fellow dancers like Johannes Radebe, judges Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse, and past celebrity partners and contestants.