Karen Hauer Steps Out After Strictly Come Dancing Departure Announcement
Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, made her first public appearance since learning her contract would not be renewed by the BBC show. The Venezuelan-born dancer attended The London Cabaret Club's gala in partnership with The King's Trust at the iconic Bloomsbury Ballroom, supported by her boyfriend Simon Davidson and several former Strictly colleagues.
Glamorous Appearance Amid Professional Setback
Despite being reportedly "very upset" by the decision to end her 13-year tenure on the popular dancing competition, Hauer appeared in better spirits as she arrived at the prestigious London event. The dancer cut a glamorous figure in an elegant off-the-shoulder black gown, posing for photographs alongside other celebrities in attendance.
Hauer was informed earlier this month that she would not be returning to Strictly Come Dancing for the upcoming season, joining several other professional dancers who have been axed from the series. Insiders suggest the entire lineup of professional dancers could be undergoing a major overhaul as BBC bosses seek a fresh start following years of criticism and controversy surrounding the show's dance professionals.
Former Strictly Colleagues Show Support
Among those attending the same gala were Tasha Ghouri and Helen George, both former Strictly contestants who competed during Hauer's time on the show. Ghouri, who serves as an ambassador for The King's Trust, opted for an eye-catching leather dress as she attended with her boyfriend Cam Whitnall.
The gala event featured 14 young performers taking to the stage after completing a two-week professional training programme, highlighting the charitable aspect of the evening while providing a supportive environment for Hauer's first public outing since her professional disappointment.
Widespread Changes to Strictly Professional Lineup
Hauer's departure forms part of broader changes to the Strictly Come Dancing professional roster. Nadiya Bychkova, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Márquez have also been axed from the series, with sources indicating all professional dancers are already aware of their fate for the upcoming season.
One insider commented: "Karen is the latest professional dancer to be told her contract will not be renewed this year. It's very much a case of out with the old and in with the new. As the longest-serving female dancer, Karen found out last week that her time on Strictly is over."
A second source added: "It's an awful fate for the professional dancers who have dedicated their careers to the show. Karen was obviously very upset after being told the news, but she is trying to remain positive about the future."
Future Prospects and Show History
Despite her long-standing commitment to Strictly Come Dancing, Hauer never won the coveted glitterball trophy, though she did reach the final with celebrity partner Mark Wright in 2014. The dancer previously worked as a choreographer and in the fitness industry, avenues she may now pursue more actively following her departure from the BBC programme.
Sources suggest Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe have received confirmation they will return to the show, while Aljaž Škorjanec appears increasingly unlikely to make a comeback. Neil Jones and Nancy Xu, who have rarely had celebrity dance partners in recent seasons, are expected to continue without partners but may appear in group dance numbers.
Hauer was previously married to former Strictly professional Kevin Clifton, with their marriage ending after three years. Despite the personal split, the pair continued to work together professionally on the show until Hauer's recent departure.
