Hayley Holt, who joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional in 2008, has spoken of her devastation after being dropped from the show via email by BBC bosses. The New Zealand-born dancer, now 46, was partnered with Olympic swimmer Mark Foster and made it to week six before being voted off.
Her time on the show ended alongside Mark's, as she was not brought back the following year. A few years later, Hayley, now a TV presenter, opened up about her shock at the way her departure was handled.
No reason given for departure
Hayley admitted she was "disappointed" and "frustrated" after being dropped, revealing she was not given a reason for the decision. "I'm not too sure why I wasn't asked back. They didn't really give me a reason," she told the Mirror in 2012.
"My agent had to ring them up to find out what was going on. It leaves me wondering why. It is frustrating."
Fond memories despite the exit
Despite the treatment, Hayley said she had fond memories of her time on the show. "If they asked me back I would definitely consider it," she added. "I had a great time. It was a whirlwind. Obviously it's hard work, but I enjoyed it. I'm going to miss it."
Her departure coincided with the sacking of judge Arlene Phillips, who was replaced by Alesha Dixon. "I was surprised because Arlene is such a stalwart. I'm not too sure why they did that," Hayley said.
Changes to the show
"I think they wanted to shake up the show a little bit, give it a new life. Arlene is amazing. I hate to think it would have been because of her age, because people loved her… and I think Karen is one of the best dancers in the world."
Of Alesha's appointment, she added: "I can understand why they want Alesha in. As a former champion she can give the celebrities more help than the other judges. It's sad to see change, but that's the nature of television. You just have to deal with it. But I can understand the outrage and why people are frustrated. Nobody likes to see favourites go."
This year, five professionals were axed from Strictly before the latest series began airing. Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas and Karen Hauer did not return. Karen was one of the show's longest-serving professionals, having been part of the programme for 14 years, while Gorka departed after 10 years.
