The BBC has reportedly used TikTok popularity as a key factor in deciding which professional dancers to keep on Strictly Come Dancing, sparking a major cast shake-up. Fan favourite Karen Hauer has already been axed, with Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas rumoured to follow. Sources have indicated the cull may continue, marking one of the biggest cast overhauls in years.
The reasoning behind the decisions has emerged amid reports that dancers with larger social media followings are being favoured. Karen Hauer, the show’s longest-serving female professional, has around 9,000 TikTok followers, while Alexis Warr – believed to be safe – has nearly 190,000. The BBC declined to comment when approached.
A source told The Sun: “Strictly is always looking for ways to increase its audience … Social media is a massive part of broadening that appeal, and TikTok is the perfect medium … They won’t simply lose someone because they aren’t big on TikTok, but it might just be the thing that saves them.”
Another 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.” Meanwhile, Karen Hauer described the exit as “terribly stressful” but credited her dogs for helping her cope. Executive producer Sarah James thanked Karen for her “passion, creativity and dedication”.
