Karen Hauer broke down in tears as she confirmed she has quit Strictly following rumours she had been axed in the mass cull.

The Venezuelan–American dancer, 43, has been a professional on the show for 14 years – making her Strictly’s longest ever running female dancer.

But it was rumoured earlier this month that she was included in a group of dancers sensationally axed as part of a major overhaul of the show’s lineup.

Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35, were all axed from the series, with sources claiming the Strictly pros are already aware of their fate.

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

She began to cry as she recalled her pride at ‘a young girl from the Bronx’ going on to be the show’s longest serving female professional. 

In the video, 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. 

‘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 Chloe, 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 honor to share the ballroom with them.

‘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 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 departure, was quick to comment on Karen’s announcement. 

She said: ‘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 professional Johannes Radebe gushed over his friend, writing: ‘There’s no one like you K ♥️ we love you mamasita!’ 

Judge Shirley Ballas shared love hearts while Motsi Mabuse said: ‘Love you dear all the best ❤️❤️❤️.’ 

Meanwhile former Strictly celebrity Dr Punam Krishan said: ‘Oh Karen, love you so much. Excited for your next chapter ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.’

Former Strictly winner Ore Oduba wrote: ‘Oh Karen, congratulations for it ALL ❤️.’ 

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who starred on last year’s Strictly, said: ‘Big love, beautiful woman. Here’s to your next chapter ❤️.’ 

Karen’s last celebrity partner on the series was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who commented: ‘A true inspiration! Purely unique! Thank you for everything! Cant wait for the next chapter ❤️.’

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

She showcased her versatility as a choreographer by performing with comic Jayde Adams in 2022, following on from Katya Jones, who was the first Strictly female pro to perform in a same-sex pairing.

The BBC dance competition recently underwent a major reshuffle, with several familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a ‘bloodbath’.

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

Following the news, dancer Aljaž Skorjanec shared his thoughts on the changes for the first time and spoke about what the shake-up could mean for his own role.

Speaking to the Mirror, he said: ‘It’s always sad to see someone go, but it’s equally exciting to see new faces, fresh energy, and people who bring something different.’

Sharing if he plans to return this year, Aljaz said: ‘They don’t announce the names of dancers returning until it’s confirmed. 

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