Karen Hauer Announces Departure from Strictly Come Dancing After 14 Years

After an impressive 14-year run, professional dancer Karen Hauer has announced her departure from Strictly Come Dancing. The announcement came via an emotional video posted on her Instagram account on Saturday, March 21, 2026, signaling the end of an era for the long-serving dancer.

A Bittersweet Farewell

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 the profound impact the indicate has had on her life, stating that Strictly had changed her “not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being.” She also spoke fondly of the friendships forged with celebrity partners, and colleagues.

A Journey Through the Ballroom

Karen Hauer first graced the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom in 2012, paired with Westlife’s Nicky Byrne. The BBC notes that she has since danced with a variety of celebrities, including Jamie Laing, with whom she achieved second place, and most recently, Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known as Nitro.

Acknowledging Fellow Stars and Fans

In her announcement, Hauer extended gratitude to her fans for witnessing her growth over the years, even playfully acknowledging “all of my different hairstyles.” She also expressed a surprising sentiment, stating she would “even miss standing in front of the judges,” appreciating the challenge of maintaining composure although sometimes disagreeing with their critiques. She also referenced former co-hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who stepped down last year, expressing hope they could now “finally be ladies who lunch in the Autumn.”

A Legacy on Strictly

Hauer’s departure follows that of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their exits in 2025. The Guardian highlights that she is the longest-serving female professional dancer on the show. The BBC released a statement thanking Hauer for her “incredible contribution” over the past 14 years.

Early Career and Influences

Born in Venezuela and raised in the Bronx, New York City, Hauer first gained recognition on the US reality show So You Think You Can Dance in 2009. She moved to the UK in 2010 as part of the Latin stage show Burn the Floor before joining Strictly Come Dancing. She fondly remembered joining the show in 2012 alongside “incredible legends” Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman.