Karen Hauer confirms Strictly exit in tearful message to fans

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Karen Hauer has confirmed she’s leaving the show after 14 years.

Hauer, the longest-serving female dancer on the show, revealed the decision to fans in an emotional Instagram post.

“I’ve decided this is the right time to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas I’m passionate about.

“Strictly completely changed my life,” she said, fighting back tears.

Hauer is one of a number of established professionals thought to have left the show, as BBC bosses plan to overhaul the series in the wake of presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s departure.

Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas are among the other names rumoured to not be returning for the next series.

Strictly’s Dianne Buswell shows off baby bump as she pokes fun at pregnancy rumours

Keith Haring remembered for championing accessibility through subway sketches

Stephen Graham and Hannah Walters reflect on one-year of Adolescence