Karen Hauer Announces Departure from Strictly Come Dancing
Venezuelan-born professional dancer Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has announced her departure from the show after 14 years.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Hauer expressed that it was
“the right time to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas I’m passionate about”.
She reflected on her journey with the show, stating:
“Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being. I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much.”
Hauer also mentioned her fondness for the experience of performing on the show, including the moments in front of the judges:
“I’d even miss standing in front of the judges. Can you believe that? Smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing. It’s been an honour to share the ballroom with them.”
Expressing gratitude towards her supporters, she added:
“I’m so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hair styles.”
The dancer, who was born in Venezuela and moved to New York City at the age of eight, became emotional as she reflected on her unexpected journey:
“Who would have thought that a young girl from the Bronx would end up becoming the longest-serving female professional dancer on a British TV institution. Strictly, will always be in my heart. I love you all.”
Career Highlights and Background
Karen Hauer first appeared on television when she auditioned for the US reality competition So You Think You Can Dance in 2009. She relocated to the UK in 2010 to join the Latin stage production Burn the Floor and made her debut on Strictly Come Dancing in 2012.
During her time on Strictly, she met notable figures such as former host Bruce Forsyth and judge Len Goodman, whom she described as
“incredible legends”.
Her initial pairing on the show was with Westlife singer Nicky Byrne, with whom she reached the quarter-finals. In 2014, she advanced to the finals partnered with The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright. Later, in 2019, she finished as runner-up with Jamie Laing, known for his role in Made in Chelsea.
Early Life and Dance Training
Hauer was awarded a scholarship to study contemporary dance at the age of nine, a program she pursued for ten years. In an interview with , she shared how dance served as an emotional outlet during her childhood, especially when her mother was working and she was home alone.
She explained:
“It was hard, as a kid, to know what I was feeling. Dancing gave me a way to express myself and release energy. I didn’t want to let my mom down so I always tried to be the good girl, but I could be emotional through my dancing.”
