Strictly fans 'predict show's downfall' as top pro dancer leaves while 'more face axe'

 Strictly Come Dancing fans are already bracing themselves for a major change to this year's show after beloved hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman revealed they were leaving the BBC programme last year. However, it seems there are some more big alterations on the way, as it's been claimed many of the programme's professional dancers face the axe.

Reports indicate that seven established professional dancers will not be returning to the main line-up. These are Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Michelle Tsiakkas, Neil Jones, 43, Nancy Xu and Karen Hauer. Today (March 21), Hauer, 43, who is the show's longest-serving female professional after 14 years revealed she's leaving the programme

She broke down in tears in an online video as she confirmed she has quit Strictly following rumours she had been axed in the mass cull.

Taking Instagram, Karen shared an emotional video where she revealed she was choosing to step away from the show to focus on other ventures.

As she started to cry, the Venezuelan–American dancer recalled her pride at 'a young girl from the Bronx' going on to be the show's longest-serving female professional.

In the clip, Karen said: "Hey everyone, I've got something to tell you. It's a tough one, but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I've decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I'm passionate about.

"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.

"None of this would have been possible without the amazing fans. You've been there since day one, when I just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into. I'm so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hair styles."

She added: "I'm going to miss everyone who makes the show possible, from hair, makeup, wardrobe, the crew behind the cameras, lighting, production and staging, the runners the arch and the band, the singers and the producers and welfare team who take such good care of us. It's an incredible machine powered by brilliant people.

"To my fellow professional dancers, who I adore. I will always be cheering you on. You truly are the best in the business. I'll never forget joining the show 14 years ago with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman and learning from such incredible legends along the way.

"And to the brilliant Tess and Claudia, maybe now we can finally be ladies who lunch in the autumn.

"I'll 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."

Karen concluded: "'And last but not least, thank you to my friends and family who have supported me through it all. I love you all. Now this isn't a goodbye, it's simply see you later, because I will never stop dancing.

"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."

The BBC also later released 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.

"As the longest-serving female professional dancer in the history of the show, Karen has given so much of herself and her time to the programme, and we are extremely grateful for the passion, creativity and dedication she has brought to every single performance.

"She has captivated audiences with her talent, warmth and genuine love of dance and has been responsible for some of the most iconic partnerships and joyous routines the Strictly dance floor has ever seen.

"We thank her for all these memorable moments and for her incredible work ethic. Her professionalism and sense of humour shine through 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 favourites to take over the Strictly hosting job after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's exit, quickly commented on Karen's announcement, writing: "You're one awesome woman Karen. so many incredible memories of your dances with brilliant partners Dave M, Jeremy V, Charles V and Harry and more.

"All your pro dances wow. Exciting adventures ahead. Love you Hotlips Hauer."

Fellow Strictly dancer Johannes Radebe also gushed over his friend, writing: "There's no one like you K, we love you mamasita!"

Judge Shirley Ballas posted love hearts to the dancer while Motsi Mabuse said: "Love you dear all the best."

However, some fans are fuming over Karen's exit and have predicted that exit of more major stars could 'signal the show's downfall'.

One person wrote on X: "The downfall of Strictly looms! Getting rid of loads of fav pros and no matter who the new hosts are people will obviously say, 'It's not the same without Tess and Claudia!'"

Another chimed in: "No Karen and Gorka means no watching from me. They will be missed. Good luck to them both in what’s next."

A third added: "Doesn’t bode well for the new line-up. Dread to think who the new presenters are."

While a fourth added: "One of my favourite dancers. She will be missed."

According to The Sun, a Strictly source said: “There are major changes taking place with dancers having meetings about their contracts over the next few weeks.

“Bosses want a fresh start and to bring in new faces after all the drama in recent years and create a new era.”