Karen Hauer has reappeared on social media shortly after reports emerged that she was let go from the popular show “Strictly Come Dancing.” The 43-year-old TV personality has been a fixture on the BBC program since 2012, making her the longest-serving professional on the show. However, it was reported on Tuesday that her contract was not renewed.
Rather than directly addressing the situation, Karen shared a series of photos featuring her spending time with her cherished pet dogs. In her post, she wrote, “Joey & Marley working the camera [paw prints emoji] Too early for Phoebe and I to be bothered!” Despite her silence on the matter, fans expressed their disappointment in the comments section.
Supportive comments poured in from followers, with one expressing hope that the news was not true and praising Karen’s contribution to the show. Another fan vowed not to watch “Strictly” if Karen was not part of it, emphasizing the impact of her potential departure on the show’s viewership.
Throughout her tenure on the show, Karen has danced with various celebrities, including Jayde Adams, Chris Ramsey, and most recently, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. However, it is rumored that show producers are planning to introduce new talent for the upcoming season, which typically airs from September to December.
According to a source quoted in the Daily Mail, Karen is among the professional dancers whose contracts will not be renewed this year. The source mentioned a shift towards bringing in fresh faces, signaling a change in the show’s lineup. Additionally, Michelle Tsiakkas and Luba Mushtuk have also reportedly been dropped from the program. The Mirror has reached out to representatives for comment on these developments.
The show is undergoing significant changes, especially after hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure from the BBC series last year. An insider compared the show’s dynamics to a sports team, emphasizing the need for periodic changes to maintain competitiveness and freshness.
Reports suggest that age may have played a role in the decision to let go of certain professionals, with Nadiya Bychkova being cited as an example. The source implied ageism in the selection process, highlighting Nadiya’s popularity among fans and her surprise at not being asked back. Nadiya was reportedly devastated by the news of her departure.
As the show prepares for a new season, fans can expect further updates on the evolving lineup and format changes. Follow Mirror Celebs on various social media platforms for the latest entertainment news and gossip.