In a seismic shift for the beloved BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, five professional dancers have announced their departure as the programme gears up for its next series—marking the end of an era for the franchise. Among those bidding farewell is Karen Hauer, the longest-serving female professional, who has graced the dance floor for an impressive 14 years.
Hauer, who joined the cast in 2012, revealed her decision to leave in an emotional Instagram video, stating, "Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher but as a human being." Glowing with gratitude, she reminisced about the incredible people and celebrity partners she has worked with, all of whom have become cherished friends.
Accompanying Hauer in this exodus are Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas, all contributing to a substantial transformation in the professional lineup. Marquez, departing after ten years, faced scheduling conflicts with his role as a judge on the Spanish version of the competition last year, a commitment that kept him from partnering with a celebrity. He has built a life off-screen as well, sharing two children with former contestant Gemma Atkinson.
Nadiya Bychkova, who joined in 2017, expressed her excitement for new opportunities and more time with her daughter, saying, "Life feels full of possibilities." Similarly, Mushtuk, a part of the team since 2018, highlighted her desire to pursue her dreams, while Tsiakkas, who joined just last year, shared her hopes of showing more of her talent on the show.
Despite the departures, the BBC reassured fans that the show will retain a vibrant mix of talent. An update indicated that 15 out of 20 professionals from last year’s cast will return, with the promise of new faces enhancing the competition's dynamic. Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke are also confirmed to return, while speculation swirls over the future hosting duo in the absence of Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Amy Dowden is among the familiar faces making a return, having faced her own challenges last year due to a breast cancer diagnosis and an early exit with her partner. Fans eagerly anticipate the announcement of this season’s celebrity contestants, expected ahead of the series premiere set for September.
Full List of Returning Professionals
Among the returning pros are:
- Alexis Warr
- Amy Dowden
- Aljaz Skorjanec
- Carlos Gu
- Dianne Buswell
- Johannes Radebe
- Jowita Przystal
- Julian Caillon
- Kai Widdrington
- Katya Jones
- Lauren Oakley
- Nancy Xu
- Neil Jones
- Nikita Kuzmin
- Vito Coppola
This season promises to bring a fresh fusion of experience and artistry to the Strictly ballroom, ensuring that audiences remain captivated as the captivating dance competition unfolds once more.
Source: BBC
Source: BBC Entertainment
