Karen Hauer Leaves Strictly Come Dancing After 14 Years

Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female pro on Strictly, is leaving after 14 years. This is a big change for the show.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, Television |

Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer on the BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing', has announced her departure from the show after a 14-year tenure.

The dancer confirmed her exit on social media, stating it was "the right time to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas I'm passionate about." Her announcement comes amid previous reports that suggested a shake-up in the professional lineup for the upcoming season, with other dancers also rumored to be leaving. Hauer's departure marks the end of a significant period for the show, having been a fixture since her debut.

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Hauer's journey on 'Strictly' began when she was paired with Nicky Byrne, reaching the quarter-finals. Over the years, she partnered with a variety of celebrities, including Mark Wright, Jeremy Vine, and Jamie Laing, with whom she reached the runner-up position in her final season. Her 14-year involvement makes her the longest-serving female professional on the program.

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In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Hauer expressed her gratitude to the show, stating that 'Strictly' had profoundly impacted her life, "not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being." She also made a lighthearted remark referencing the departure of former co-hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman last year, suggesting they could now "finally be ladies who lunch in the Autumn."

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The dancer's decision has prompted reactions from colleagues and fans alike, with many expressing their admiration and well wishes. Judges such as Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse have also acknowledged her exit. Fellow professional dancers, including Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Nancy Xu, Vito Coppola, Jowita Pryztal, and Lauren Oakley, shared supportive messages in the comments section of her announcement.

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Hauer's early life was marked by a strong dedication to dance, having secured a scholarship to the Martha Graham school of contemporary dance at the age of nine, where she trained for a decade. She has previously described dancing as an essential outlet for self-expression and energy release.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Karen Hauer leaving Strictly Come Dancing in 2024?
Karen Hauer announced she is leaving Strictly Come Dancing after 14 years. She said it is the right time to start new projects she is passionate about. She wants to focus on other areas of her life.
Q: How long was Karen Hauer on Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Hauer was on Strictly Come Dancing for 14 years. She joined the show in 2012. She was the longest-serving female professional dancer on the show.
Q: Who did Karen Hauer dance with on Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Hauer partnered with many celebrities on Strictly. Some of them were Nicky Byrne, Mark Wright, Jeremy Vine, and Jamie Laing. She reached the final with Jamie Laing in her last season.
Q: What will Karen Hauer do next after leaving Strictly?
Karen Hauer wants to take on new projects in areas she is passionate about. She did not give exact details but mentioned doing other things she loves. She also joked about being 'ladies who lunch' with former hosts.
Q: How have colleagues reacted to Karen Hauer leaving Strictly?
Many colleagues and fans have reacted to Karen Hauer's departure. Judges like Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse acknowledged her exit. Other professional dancers also shared supportive messages on her announcement.