Strictly Come Dancing Veteran Karen Hauer Speaks Out on Show Departure
Strictly Come Dancing's longest-serving professional dancer Karen Hauer has publicly addressed her departure from the hit BBC series, describing the experience as 'stressful and emotional'. The 43-year-old performer confirmed she was among several professional dancers recently axed from the show amid what insiders are calling a major overhaul of the entire lineup.
Emotional Impact and Canine Support
Speaking at the LitPet's Sunday Dog Social event held at the luxurious 180 House on London's Strand, Hauer revealed how her four rescue dogs have been instrumental in helping her navigate this challenging career transition. 'It's been a terribly stressful and emotional time and my four dogs have really helped me get through it,' she confessed to attendees.
The dancer, who attended the event with one of her rescue dogs named Marley, elaborated on the emotional connection she shares with her pets: 'My dogs really feel it when I'm stressed and they have really helped me get through this. What's just happened is part of life and the stresses that go with it.'
Widespread Professional Dancer Changes
Hauer's departure comes as part of what industry sources describe as a significant shake-up among Strictly Come Dancing's professional dancers. Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Hauer had been axed after an impressive 13-year tenure on the popular BBC programme.
This follows similar announcements regarding several other professional dancers:
- Nadiya Bychkova, 36
- Michelle Tsiakkas, 30
- Luba Mushtuk, 36
- Gorka Márquez, 35
Insiders suggest that all professional dancers on the show have already been informed about their future involvement, with one source stating: '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.'
Career Highlights and Future Prospects
During her extensive Strictly Come Dancing career, Hauer partnered with numerous celebrities, though she never secured the coveted glitterball trophy. Her most recent celebrity partner was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, while previous partners included:
- Former footballer Paul Merson (2022)
- Comedian Eddie Kadi (2023)
- Comic Jayde Adams (2022)
- Sunday Brunch host Simon Rimmer
- TOWIE's Mark Wright (2014 finalist)
A second source close to the situation commented: '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.'
The source added that Hauer, who also works as a choreographer and in the fitness industry, now has opportunities to focus more extensively on these alternative career paths.
Wellness Event and Community Support
At the LitPet Sunday Dog Social, described as a wellness retreat designed specifically for dogs and their owners, Hauer and Marley participated in various stress-relieving activities. These included a pet reiki session conducted by specialist practitioner Yasmin and a dog tarot reading.
Stephen Hu, founder of LitPet, explained the event's purpose: 'We created LitPet because we saw a need for natural, effective ways to support our pets' wellbeing in busy urban environments. Having Karen here today, and seeing firsthand how our supplements and these holistic therapies can help dogs like hers find their calm, is exactly why we launched the Sunday Dog Social.'
Hu emphasized that the event aims to build 'a supportive community for both dogs and their owners', providing therapeutic benefits during challenging times.
Personal Background and Professional Legacy
Beyond her Strictly Come Dancing career, Hauer was previously married to fellow professional dancer Kevin Clifton, though their marriage ended after three years. Despite their separation, the pair continued working together professionally on the show.
As the professional dancer lineup continues to evolve, with Aljaž Škorjanec reportedly unlikely to return while Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe have received confirmation they can stay, Hauer's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Strictly Come Dancing history. Her 13-year contribution to the programme remains one of the longest tenures among female professional dancers on the popular BBC entertainment series.
