Karen Hauer Displays Toned Physique in New Social Media Post After Strictly Come Dancing Departure
Professional dancer Karen Hauer has showcased her impressive washboard abs in a fresh social media update, revealing that the period following her exit from Strictly Come Dancing has "felt like a year already." The 43-year-old Venezuelan-American performer was among several stars dropped by BBC bosses in a significant refresh of the ballroom show's professional lineup.
Emotional Aftermath of Strictly Exit
Before her unexpected departure, Karen held the distinction of being Strictly's longest-serving female dancer in the programme's history. In her Wednesday post to followers, she shared multiple snapshots documenting her activities in the weeks since the news broke. The images included striking photos of her wearing a tiny red sports bra with turquoise shorts after a home workout, along with a glamorous velvet off-the-shoulder dress.
Her post carousel also featured pictures of her dogs, professional photoshoots, and outings with boyfriend Simon Davidson. Karen hinted at the emotional toll her axing from Strictly has taken, captioning the update: "5 days till my birthday and April has felt like a year already."
Fan Support and Professional Legacy
Loyal supporters flooded the comments section with compliments and encouragement. One admirer wrote: "A truly wonderful powerhouse and role model," while another exclaimed: "Wow, Karen that dress!" Additional messages included birthday wishes and praise for her appearance in the various photographs.
The dancer was part of a group of Strictly professionals let go as producers overhauled the show's lineup. When announcing her departure, Karen shared an emotional video message with fans, stating she had chosen to walk away from the long-running series. She became tearful while reflecting on her journey from "a young girl from the Bronx" to becoming the programme's longest-serving female professional.
Farewell Message and BBC Tribute
In her heartfelt video, Karen expressed: "Hey everyone, I've got something to tell you. It's a tough one, but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I've decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I'm passionate about." She detailed how the show transformed her life both professionally and personally, thanking numerous colleagues, celebrity partners, and the production team.
The BBC subsequently released an official statement acknowledging Karen's contributions: "We would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Karen Hauer for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the last 14 years. As the longest-serving female professional dancer in the history of the show, Karen has given so much of herself and her time to the programme." Executive Producer Sarah James praised Karen's "passion, creativity and dedication" and her role in creating "some of the most iconic partnerships and joyous routines the Strictly dance floor has ever seen."
Additional Departures from Strictly
Other professional dancers leaving the ballroom include Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas. Notably, Michelle also withdrew from the Strictly Professionals live tour shortly before its scheduled April commencement. With the exception of Karen, none of the other departing dancers have publicly commented on their exits at this time.
