Karen Hauer, a 43-year-old TV personality known for her role as a professional dancer on the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing since 2012, has allegedly been let go from the program. Throughout her tenure, she has partnered with various celebrities such as Jayde Adams, Chris Ramsey, and most recently, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. However, reports suggest that her contract has not been renewed, making her the latest professional to exit the show this year, following in the footsteps of Nadiya Bychkova and Gorka Marquez.
According to sources cited by the Daily Mail, Karen was informed last week that she will not be returning to the show, marking the end of her time on Strictly. Additionally, Michelle Tsiakkas, who danced with former EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick in 2020, and Luba Mushtuk have also been removed from the lineup.
Significant changes are anticipated for the long-standing competition, especially after hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced their departure from the BBC last year. Industry insiders likened the restructuring of the professional lineup to a sports team rotation strategy, emphasizing the need for fresh talent to keep the show dynamic and competitive.
Regarding Nadiya’s departure, sources suggested age may have played a role in the decision, with claims of an “out with the old, in with the new” approach by the show’s producers. The sudden exits of Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have also been confirmed, each for various reasons including filming commitments and lack of dance partners in the previous season.
Tess and Claudia, in a joint statement, expressed gratitude for their time as hosts on Strictly Come Dancing, calling it a dream experience. They announced their departure together, emphasizing that it felt like the right time to move on. The pair thanked the BBC and the show’s production team, expressing their fondness for the program and its members.
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