After a period of quiet, Karen Hauer, a prominent figure on “Strictly Come Dancing,” has shared an emotional update regarding her departure from the show. Following speculation that Karen had been removed from the professional dancer lineup, she disclosed that she would not be returning to the BBC program this year. However, the specifics of whether the decision was hers or the BBC’s were not disclosed in her statement.
In a heartfelt video, Karen, who had reportedly been keeping a low profile since the news broke, was visibly emotional as she reminisced about her remarkable 14-year tenure on the show. Seated in a dimly lit venue adorned with soft glowing lights, Karen, the show’s longest-serving female dancer, directly addressed her fans.
She began by announcing, “Hey everyone, I’ve made a tough decision. After 14 years on ‘Strictly Come Dancing,’ I believe it’s time for me to explore new opportunities in areas I’m passionate about.” Karen expressed gratitude for the life-changing experiences the show had offered her, highlighting the friendships she had formed with celebrity partners and fans.
Acknowledging the behind-the-scenes team that made the show possible, Karen praised the dedication and talent of fellow professional dancers and production staff. Reflecting on her journey on the show, she fondly recalled joining alongside esteemed figures like Sir Bruce Forsythe and learning from industry legends. She humorously hinted at future plans with other show personalities and expressed appreciation for the judges and her support system.
Concluding her message with a heartfelt farewell, Karen assured fans that her departure was not goodbye but a “see you later,” affirming her enduring passion for dance. The emotional update was shared on Karen’s Instagram with a simple caption and a red heart emoji. Reports had previously circulated about Karen’s contract not being renewed by BBC bosses, hinting at a shift towards new talent on the show following other recent changes in hosting roles.
Throughout her tenure, Karen had partnered with various celebrities, including Mark Wright, Jeremy Vine, and Eddie Kadi, before teaming up with Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. Her departure marks the end of an era on “Strictly Come Dancing,” leaving fans and colleagues with fond memories of her contributions to the show.