Strictly Come Dancing professional Karen Hauer was moved to tears during a heartfelt appearance on spin-off show It Takes Two, as she reflected on the tragic death of her former dance partner and co-star, Dave Myers.
A Milestone Overshadowed by Grief
The emotional moment came as Karen marked a significant personal milestone: fourteen years on the BBC dancing show. This makes her the longest-serving professional dancer currently on the programme, a position she inherited after Anton du Beke moved to the judging panel.
"When I came onto Strictly, I had no idea I’d be here for 14 years," she remarked. "Anton is now a judge so that means I’ve taken the place of the longest serving professional dancer. Thank you Anton."
Remembering Dave Myers: The Partner Who Taught Her Joy
During a segment looking back at her many celebrity partners, the conversation turned to Dave Myers of the Hairy Bikers, whom she was paired with in 2013 during her second year on the show. It was this memory that proved too much for the dancer.
She fondly recalled their salsa routine, for which Dave had the imaginative idea of being pushed in a trolley while Karen wore a headpiece full of fruit. "Dave Myers was the first celebrity that I danced with that showed me how to be happy," Karen shared, her voice breaking with emotion.
She explained that at the time, she was feeling lost about her identity on the popular show. Dave Myers unlocked that for her. "He unlocked that key for me and went this is how you have fun Karen," she said, adding that he showed her how to make fun of herself, a lesson she has carried with her ever since.
A Lasting Legacy and a Heartfelt Goodbye
Fighting back tears, Karen concluded her tribute with a simple, poignant statement: "He took care of me and I just miss him. Sorry."
Dave Myers passed away in February 2024 after a brave battle with cancer. His death was met with an outpouring of grief, notably from his Hairy Bikers co-star, Si King, who posted a heartbreaking tribute on social media at the time.
"My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow," King wrote. "I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime. I wish you god’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world."
