Karen Hauer Reflects on Stressful Departure from Strictly Come Dancing
Strictly Come Dancing’s longest-serving professional dancer, Karen Hauer, describes her recent exit from the show as “stressful and emotional.” The 43-year-old dancer faces this career shift amid widespread changes to the professional lineup.
Insiders indicate a major overhaul for the pros, with several departures already confirmed. All professionals reportedly know their status for the upcoming season.
Turning to Rescue Dogs for Support
At the LitPet Sunday Dog Social event at London’s 180 House on the Strand, Karen appeared with her rescue dog Marley, one of her four pups she often features online. She shared how the dogs provide comfort during tough times.
“It’s been a terribly stressful and emotional time, and my four dogs have really helped me get through it,” Karen stated. “What’s just happened is part of life and the stresses that go with it.”
She added that her stress affects the dogs, noting, “My dogs really feel it when I’m stressed, and they have really helped me get through this.”
Details of the Show’s Professional Overhaul
Karen served 13 years on the show before bosses decided not to renew her contract. Other pros departing include Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35.
Sources close to the production describe it as “out with the old and in with the new.” One insider noted Karen’s upset but optimism, highlighting her choreography and fitness work as future focuses.
Aljaž Škorjanec appears unlikely to return, while Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe receive approval to stay.
Karen’s Strictly Legacy
Her recent partners include Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, footballer Paul Merson, and comedian Eddie Kadi in 2023. Earlier, she partnered with Jayde Adams, Katya Jones in a same-sex pairing showcase, Sunday Brunch host Simon Rimmer, and TOWIE’s Mark Wright.
Despite reaching the 2014 final with Wright, Karen never claimed the Glitterball Trophy. She was previously married to fellow pro Kevin Clifton; they divorced after three years but collaborated professionally afterward.
Wellness Retreat Experience
During the dog-focused wellness retreat, Karen and Marley enjoyed the venue’s offerings, including a pet reiki session and dog tarot reading in the wellness zone.
Stephen Hu, LitPet founder, explained, “We created LitPet because we saw a need for natural, effective ways to support our pets’ wellbeing in busy urban environments.” He added that events like this foster community for dogs and owners, helping them find calm through supplements and holistic therapies.
