Strictly Come Dancing is undergoing a major shake-up, with professional dancers being axed based on their social media presence, particularly TikTok. Fan favourite Karen Hauer has already been let go, and Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas are rumoured to follow. The cull is one of the biggest in recent years, with even spin-off show It Takes Two facing changes to its hosts.
BBC bosses are reportedly using TikTok followers as a key metric to decide which pros to keep, aiming to attract a younger audience. Karen Hauer, the show's longest-serving female dancer, has around 9,000 TikTok followers, while Alexis Warr, who is said to be safe, has almost 190,000. A source told The Sun: 'Social media is a massive part of broadening that appeal, and TikTok is the perfect medium for a show where music and dance is at the forefront.'
The overhaul extends beyond the professional dancers, with hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly also being replaced. An insider said: 'Fans will be stunned that this bloodbath is continuing, but bosses are determined to overhaul the show completely. Nobody feels safe right now.'
Karen Hauer described her departure as 'terribly stressful' and credited her four dogs for helping her cope. Executive producer Sarah James praised Karen's contributions, saying: 'She has captivated audiences with her talent, warmth and genuine love of dance.' The BBC declined to comment on the reported strategy.
