Strictly Come Dancing Star Karen Hauer Emerges After Emotional Departure Announcement
Professional dancer Karen Hauer has been seen in public for the first time since revealing her decision to quit Strictly Come Dancing after an impressive 14-year run on the popular BBC dance competition. The 43-year-old Venezuelan-American performer, who became the longest-serving female dancer in the show's history, shared an emotional video with fans earlier this week, stating it was "time to close this chapter."
Wellness Retreat Visit Following Strictly Exit
To cope with the stress of her departure, Karen Hauer treated herself to a visit at an exclusive wellness retreat designed for dogs and their owners. She appeared in high spirits as she spent quality time with her pet dog, Marley, at the LitPet Sunday Dog Social event held at 180 House on London's Strand. The dancer indulged in an afternoon of holistic therapies aimed at reducing anxiety and promoting calm, showcasing a positive outlook despite the recent career transition.
Clarifying Rumours of a Strictly "Bloodbath"
Speculation had been circulating for weeks that Karen Hauer was among several long-standing professionals reportedly axed in what some media outlets dubbed a Strictly "bloodbath." Other names rumoured to be leaving before the 2026 series include Nadiya Bychkova, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas. However, Karen firmly addressed these rumours in her heartfelt Instagram video, confirming that the decision to leave was entirely her own choice.
In the emotional update, she expressed: "After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I've decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I'm passionate about. Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being."
Tributes from Strictly Come Dancing Production Team
Sarah James, the executive producer at Strictly, issued a statement praising Karen Hauer's contributions to the show. "As the longest-serving female professional dancer in the history of the show, Karen has given so much of herself and her time to the programme, and we are extremely grateful for the passion, creativity and dedication she has brought to every single performance," James said.
She added: "She has captivated audiences with her talent, warmth and genuine love of dance and has been responsible for some of the most iconic partnerships and joyous routines the Strictly dance floor has ever seen. We thank her for all these memorable moments and for her incredible work ethic."
Future Plans and BBC Statement
While Karen Hauer looks forward to exploring new projects and passions, the BBC has remained tight-lipped about the upcoming 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing. A spokesperson for the broadcaster stated: "Plans for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be confirmed in due course." This leaves fans eagerly awaiting further announcements regarding the show's professional lineup and format changes.
Karen's departure marks the end of an era for Strictly Come Dancing, as she leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and heartfelt connections with celebrity partners and crew members alike. Her journey from a newcomer to the UK to a beloved fixture on one of television's most-watched shows highlights her resilience and dedication to the art of dance.
