“IT’S THE END OF AN ERA” — STRICTLY COME DANCING ICON KAREN HAUER QUITS AFTER 14 YEARS

She became one of the most recognisable faces on the ballroom floor. Now, after 14 years of unforgettable routines, emotional moments and celebrity partnerships, Karen Hauer is ready to begin a new chapter — leaving fans reflecting on everything she brought to Strictly Come Dancing.

A major chapter in Strictly Come Dancing history has come to an end, with professional dancer Karen Hauer confirming she is leaving the BBC competition after 14 years.

The Venezuelan-born dancer announced her decision in March 2026, saying she felt it was the right time to close this chapter of her career and pursue other projects she was passionate about.

Her departure marks the end of a remarkable run on one of Britain’s best-known entertainment programmes, where she became the show’s longest-serving female professional dancer.

An emotional goodbye to the ballroom

In a heartfelt video shared with fans, Karen reflected on how much Strictly had changed her life, not only as a performer and teacher but also as a person.

She spoke warmly about the celebrity partners she had danced with, the friendships she had formed and the production team who had supported her throughout her time on the show.

Karen also thanked viewers who had followed her journey, including through her many hairstyle changes over the years.

Looking back to her first appearance in 2012, she recalled the privilege of learning from legendary figures associated with the programme, including Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman.

Her message was emotional, but it also carried a sense of excitement about what might come next.

Why did Karen decide to leave?

Karen described her departure as a personal decision and said she wanted to explore new projects in areas she cared about.

She did not announce a single defining reason for leaving, nor did she say that family life was the main factor. Instead, her public statement focused on the timing feeling right to move forward professionally.

Her exit came amid wider changes to the Strictly line-up, with several professional dancers also leaving ahead of the 2026 series.

The BBC thanked Karen for her passion, creativity and dedication, praising the memorable partnerships and routines she had helped create over the years.

Who will take her place?

Karen’s departure formed part of a broader refresh of the programme’s professional line-up.

The BBC confirmed that new professional dancers would join the 2026 series, while the returning cast would continue to bring a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent to the ballroom.

However, Karen’s particular place in the show’s history will be difficult to replicate: she spent more than a decade helping celebrities learn challenging routines, build confidence and face the pressure of live television.

For many viewers, her legacy is not simply the number of seasons she completed, but the relationships and performances that made her such a familiar part of Saturday-night television.

A new chapter begins

After 14 years under the ballroom lights, Karen is stepping away with a long list of memories and the opportunity to pursue new ambitions.

Her announcement has prompted fans to revisit favourite performances and celebrate the contribution she made to the programme.

Although her time as a professional dancer on Strictly has ended, her next chapter is only beginning.

One thing is certain: Karen Hauer leaves behind a remarkable legacy on the Strictly dance floor — and many fans will miss seeing her compete every week.

Were you sad to hear Karen Hauer was leaving Strictly Come Dancing? Which of her partnerships or performances do you remember most?