Strictly Come Dancing's Karen Hauer Maintains Composure After Shock Axe
Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, was all smiles as she made a return to the BBC last night, March 12, despite the recent revelation that her contract with the hit dance show will not be renewed. The Daily Mail exclusively reported that Hauer, who joined Strictly in 2012, was informed of this decision earlier this week, marking a significant shift in the show's lineup.
Appearance on The Apprentice Podcast Amidst Turmoil
Amid what has been described as a firing 'bloodbath' for Strictly professionals, Karen Hauer, aged 43, appeared as a panel guest on the spin-off visual podcast for the latest series of The Apprentice. Hosted by Angela Scanlon, the episode featured Hauer offering her opinion on Lord Sugar's tenth firing, which saw contestant Rajan Gill sent home. According to The Sun, the podcast episode was pre-recorded, allowing Hauer to maintain a cheerful demeanor without referencing her departure from Strictly.
During the broadcast, host Angela Scanlon, 42, introduced Hauer as still being a 'Strictly professional dancer,' as she sat alongside radio presenter OJ Borg. This announcement came as a stark contrast to the recent news of her axing, highlighting the surreal nature of the situation.
Major Overhaul for Strictly's Professional Dancers
Karen Hauer is the latest cast member to be sensationally dropped from Strictly Come Dancing, with insiders suggesting that the entire line-up of professional dancers could be set for a major overhaul. Having performed on the programme for 13 years, Hauer was informed of the decision in recent days, joining other axed professionals including Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35.
One insider revealed, '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. She works as a choreographer and knows she can focus more on that, as well as her work in the fitness industry.'
Additionally, it is increasingly likely that Aljaž Škorjanec will not return, while Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe have been given the green light to stay. Neil Jones, 43, who has rarely had a celebrity dance partner, will also go without one this year, as will Nancy Xu, 34, though they may still appear in group dance numbers.
Reactions from Former Partners and Fans
Yesterday, Karen Hauer's former dance partner Simon Rimmer expressed his devastation over the news. The Sunday Brunch host, who danced with Hauer in 2017, took to Instagram to share his sadness, posting a photo from their time on Strictly with the caption, 'Absolutely gutted that the very best teacher and dancer @karenhauer has been axed from @bbcstrictly – thanks for everything Karen.' He paid tribute to his 'friend for life,' highlighting the emotional impact of her departure.
Karen Hauer's last celebrity partner on Strictly was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, following previous partnerships with former footballer Paul Merson in 2023 and comedian Eddie Kadi. In 2022, she showcased her versatility by performing with comic Jayde Adams, continuing the trend of same-sex pairings initiated by Katya Jones. Other notable partners included TOWIE's Mark Wright, with whom she reached the final in 2014, though she has never won the glitterball trophy.
Personal and Professional Background
Karen Hauer was previously married to former Strictly pro Kevin Clifton, but their marriage ended after three years. Despite the split, the pair continued to work together on the show, demonstrating professionalism amidst personal challenges. The Daily Mail has contacted Hauer's spokesperson for comment, but no official statement has been released yet.
Sources indicate that BBC bosses are aiming for an entirely fresh start following years of criticism and controversy surrounding the professional dancers. This shake-up reflects a broader strategy to rejuvenate the show and address ongoing issues. The Apprentice: Unfinished Business podcast, featuring Karen Hauer's appearance, is available to stream on iPlayer, offering fans a glimpse of her resilience during this transitional period.
