Karen Hauer breaks down in tears as she confirms she has quit Strictly following axed rumours – after 14 years as the show’s longest female professional dancer

Karen Hauer broke down in tears as she confirmed she quit after rumors she was sacked for mass culling.

The 43-year-old Venezuelan-American dancer has been appearing professionally on the show for 14 years, making her Strictly’s longest-running female dancer ever.

But earlier this month rumors circulated that she was among a group of dancers sensationally axed as part of a major overhaul of the show’s cast.

Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35, have been dropped from the series, with sources claiming the Strictly pros were already aware of their fates.

But on Instagram on Saturday, Karen shared an emotional video in which she revealed that she had chosen to step away from the show to focus on other ventures.

She began to cry as she recalled the pride she felt from a ‘young girl from the Bronx’ becoming the show’s longest-serving female professional.

The BBC later issued a statement saying: ‘We would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Karen Hauer for her incredible contribution.’

In the video, Karen said: ‘Hi guys, I have something to tell you. It’s a tough situation but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I decided it was the right time for me to close this chapter and start new projects in other areas I am passionate about.

‘It has completely changed my life, not only as an artist and teacher, but also as a person. I have had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and celebrity partners who have become close friends and whom I greatly admire.

‘None of this would be possible without the amazing fans. You were there from day one when I had just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into. I’m so grateful that you’ve watched me grow and witnessed my different hairstyles over the years.

I will miss everyone who made the show possible, from the hair and makeup to the wardrobe, the team behind the cameras, lighting, production and staging, the runners, belt and band, singers, producers and the outreach team who took such good care of us. An incredible machine backed by great people.

‘To my professional dancer friends whom I adore. I will always cheer you up. You truly are the best in the business. I will never forget attending the show with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman 14 years ago and learning from incredible legends along the way.

‘And to the wonderful Tess and Chloe, maybe we can be Autumn lunch ladies now.

‘I’ll even miss standing in front of the judges. Can you believe that smiling politely while sometimes secretly objecting is an honor to share the ballroom with them?

‘And last but not least, thank you to my friends and family who have supported me throughout this process. I love you all. This isn’t goodbye, it’s just see you later because I’ll never stop dancing.

The 43-year-old Venezuelan-American dancer has been appearing professionally on the show for 14 years, making her Strictly’s longest-running female dancer ever.

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, Karen shared an emotional video in which she revealed that she chose to step away from the show to focus on other ventures.

The BBC dance competition has recently undergone a major change, with five familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a ‘bloodbath’.

‘Who would have thought that a young girl from the Bronx… would become the longest-serving female professional dancer on a British broadcaster? He will definitely always be in my heart. ‘I love you all.’

The BBC later issued a statement saying: ‘We would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Karen Hauer for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the last 14 years.

The longest-serving female professional dancer in the show’s history, Karen has devoted so much of herself and her time to the program and we are extremely grateful for the passion, creativity and dedication she brings to each performance.

She has wowed audiences with her talent, warmth and genuine love of dancing and has been responsible for some of the most iconic partnerships and joyful routines the Strictly dancefloor has ever seen.

‘We thank him for all these unforgettable moments and his incredible work ethic. Her professionalism and sense of humor shine through in everything she achieves and we can’t wait to see where her next chapter takes her – Sarah James, Executive Producer.’

Zoe Ball, one of the favorites to take over the Strictly hosting job following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, was quick to comment on Karen’s announcement.

He said: ‘You are a wonderful woman, Karen. You have so many incredible memories of dancing with your amazing partners Dave M, Jeremy V, Charles V and Harry and more.

‘Wow all your professional dancing. Exciting adventures lie ahead. I love you Hotlips Hauer ❤️.’

Definitely a pro, Johannes Radebe wrote enthusiastically to his friend: ‘There’s no one like you K ♥️ we love you mamasita!’

Judge Shirley Ballas shared their love heart, while Motsi Mabuse said: ‘I love you so much my dear ❤️❤️❤️.’

Meanwhile, former famous Dr. Punam Krishan said: ‘Oh Karen, I love you so much. I’m excited for the next chapter ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.’

Karen’s last celebrity partner on the series was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Image) and she danced with former footballer Paul Merson a year ago.

Zoe Ball, one of the favorites to take over the Strictly hosting gig following the departure of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, was quick to comment on Karen’s announcement.

Definitely a pro, Johannes Radebe wrote enthusiastically to his friend: ‘There’s no one like you K ♥️ we love you mamasita!’

Meanwhile, former famous Dr. Punam Krishan said: ‘Oh Karen, I love you so much. I’m excited for the next episode ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️’

Former Strictly winner Ore Oduba wrote: ‘Oh Karen, congrats to ALL of you on this ❤️.’

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who starred in last year’s Strictly, said: ‘Great love, beautiful woman. Let’s move on to the next chapter ❤️.’

Karen’s last celebrity partner on the series was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who commented: ‘A real inspiration! Totally unique! Thank you for everything! Can’t wait for the next episode ❤️.’

Meanwhile, she danced with former footballer Paul Merson a year ago and comedian Eddie Kadi in 2023.

She showcased her versatility as a choreographer by performing with comedian Jayde Adams in 2022, after Katya Jones became the first Strictly female professional to perform with a same-sex couple.

The BBC dance competition has recently undergone a major makeover, with many familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a ‘bloodbath’.

Those leaving the ballroom include Karen, Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas, marking one of the biggest cast changes in recent years.

Following the news, dancer Aljaž Skorjanec shared his thoughts on the changes for the first time and talked about what this change could mean for his role.

To talk Mirror, said: ‘‘It’s always sad to see someone go, but it’s equally exciting to see new faces, fresh energy and people bringing something different.’

Sharing whether he plans to return this year, Aljaz said: ‘They do not announce the names of the returning dancers until they are confirmed.

‘Whatever Strictly bosses do, it’s in the best interests of the show and we always support their decisions.’