Karen Hauer Exits Strictly Come Dancing After 14 Years Amid Rumors
Karen Hauer has confirmed she will leave the BBC dance series after a 14-year run. The 43-year-old Venezuelan–American professional announced the decision in an emotional Instagram video.
Announcement and reasons
Hauer said the timing felt right to close her Strictly chapter. She told fans she plans to pursue new projects outside the show.
She became tearful as she reflected on her time with the programme. She described the opportunity as life-changing and formative.
Career on the show
Hauer joined the series in 2010. She leaves as the longest-serving female professional dancer on the programme.
Her celebrity partners included Jamie Laing, with whom she finished second. She also danced with the late Hairy Bikers chef Dave Myers.
Recent partners and memories
Her most recent celebrity partner was Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. The year before, she partnered former footballer Paul Merson, who finished 12th.
Hauer recalled working alongside Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman when she first arrived. She praised the welfare team who supported the professionals.
Judges, controversies and context
She acknowledged disagreements with judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood. She said she often disagreed privately while remaining polite on camera.
Hauer has previously criticised what she called harsh choreography feedback from a judge last season. Her tenure also overlapped with high-profile allegations involving Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima.
Responses and official comment
The BBC issued a statement thanking Hauer for her contribution over 14 years. The broadcaster noted her passion, creativity and dedication to the programme.
Hauer described her exit as not a farewell but a temporary step away. She promised fans she will continue dancing and remain a supporter.
Wider shake-up ahead of 2026
Her departure follows the recent exits of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Both presenters aired their final episode in December.
Reports suggest several other professionals may not return for the 2026 series. Names linked to those reports include Gorka Márquez, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas and Nadiya Bychkova.
Looking ahead
Hauer said she moved to the UK with little idea of what lay ahead. She called herself a “young girl from the Bronx” who found new opportunities through the show.
She said she hopes to reconnect socially with former colleagues from this autumn. The performer added she will remain active and visible in future projects.
- Confirmed departure after 14 years
- Age: 43; Venezuelan–American
- Joined Strictly in 2010; longest-serving female pro
- Recent partners: Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Paul Merson
- Notable partners: Jamie Laing (second place), Dave Myers
- Worked with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman
- BBC thanked her for her contribution
- Reports of other pros being axed ahead of 2026
Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments. Karen Hauer exits Strictly Come Dancing after 14 years amid rumours, and further cast news may follow.
