Karen Hauer Announces Departure from Strictly Come Dancing
In a significant shake-up for the beloved BBC programme, Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has confirmed her exit after an impressive 14-year tenure. The Venezuelan-born performer shared the news through an emotional video posted on her Instagram account, where she expressed gratitude and outlined her future ambitions.
An Emotional Farewell and New Beginnings
Hauer revealed that this decision marks "the right time to close this chapter" and pursue fresh ventures in other domains she is passionate about. Reflecting on her journey, she stated, "Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being." She highlighted the privilege of meeting incredible people and celebrity partners who became close friends, adding that she would even miss the interactions with the judges, despite occasional disagreements.
Addressing her fans, Hauer said, "I'm so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hair styles." Becoming tearful, she reminisced about her humble beginnings, noting, "Who would have thought that a young girl from the Bronx would end up becoming the longest-serving female professional dancer on a British TV institution." She concluded by affirming that Strictly will always hold a special place in her heart.
A Storied Career on the Dance Floor
Karen Hauer's television debut occurred in 2009 when she auditioned for the US reality show So You Think You Can Dance. She relocated to the UK in 2010 with the Latin stage production Burn the Floor, making her first appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2012. During this time, she met iconic figures such as former host Bruce Forsyth and judge Len Goodman, whom she described as "incredible legends."
Her competitive record on the show is notable:
- In her debut season, she was paired with Westlife singer Nicky Byrne, reaching the quarter-finals.
- Two years later, she advanced to the finals with The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright.
- In 2019, she secured second place alongside Jamie Laing, known from Made in Chelsea.
Early Life and Dance as an Escape
Hauer's passion for dance began early, earning a scholarship to the prestigious Martha Graham school of contemporary dance at just nine years old, where she trained for a decade. In a past interview with the Guardian, she opened up about how dancing served as an emotional outlet during her childhood. "It was hard, as a kid, to know what I was feeling. Dancing gave me a way to express myself and release energy," she explained. Hauer added that she always strived to be the "good girl" to avoid disappointing her mother, but found solace and emotional release through her performances.
Born in Venezuela, Hauer moved to New York City at the age of eight, eventually carving out a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on British television. Her departure signals the end of an era for Strictly Come Dancing, as fans and colleagues alike bid farewell to a true dance icon.
