Strictly’s Karen Hauer’s former dance partner Simon Rimmer accidentally confirms she has been axed in huge show shake-up

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Simon Rimmer, who used to be Karen Hauer’s dance partner on Strictly, unintentionally revealed that she won’t be returning to the show.

The host of Sunday Brunch, aged 62, shared his disappointment on Instagram Wednesday after learning that Karen, 43, would not be returning to the show. The pair danced together in 2017, and he described her as a ‘friend for life’.

As a lifestyle observer, I’m hearing things are really tough for Karen, who’s been a dedicated dancer on the show for years. While she hasn’t spoken out publicly about the recent changes, those close to her say she’s understandably upset by everything that’s happening.

Simon shared a photo from their time on Strictly and expressed his disappointment that Karen Hauer wouldn’t be returning as a teacher and dancer on the show. He thanked her for everything and said they would always be friends.

Many viewers agreed with Simon, expressing their surprise and disappointment at the news. One fan wrote, “This is a really strange decision by Strictly! Karen Hauer is a key part of the show and will be greatly missed!”

Karen has been with the show from the start and is incredibly talented. It’s disappointing to see the BBC show a lack of loyalty to her and the other talented dancers who have been let go. I wish them all the best in their future careers.

‘She is the best. There is no-one better!!’;

‘Nooooooooooo I love @karenhauer. She’s such a beautiful dancer. Why???’ (sic). 

The Daily Mail was the first to report that Karen, a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing since 2012, recently learned her contract wouldn’t be renewed.

This news follows the recent departures of Nadiya Bychkova, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Márquez from the show. Sources say the professional dancers all knew these changes were coming.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m hearing some news from behind the scenes – it seems Karen is the newest professional dancer who won’t be having her contract renewed this year. It’s always sad to see changes like this, but these things happen in the entertainment world.

After many years as a professional dancer on Strictly, Karen was told last week that she won’t be returning to the show. It’s a natural transition as the show brings in new talent.

Another source said it’s heartbreaking for the professional dancers who have spent their careers performing on the show.

Oh my gosh, when I heard what happened to Karen, my heart just broke for her! She was so shaken, but honestly, she’s amazing. She’s already trying to look forward, and it’s inspiring! She’s a brilliant choreographer, and she’s saying she’s going to really throw herself into that, along with all the awesome fitness work she does. I just know she’ll shine, she always does!

Aljaž Škorjanec probably won’t be back, but Carlos Gu and Johannes Radebe are confirmed to return.

Karen’s most recent dance partner on the show was Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known for his role in ‘Gladiator.’ Before that, she partnered with ex-footballer Paul Merson, and in 2023, she danced with comedian Eddie Kadi.

As a creative professional, I’ve always admired performers who push boundaries, and I was so impressed to see the incredible choreography showcased alongside comedian Jayde Adams in 2022. It was particularly exciting because it followed Katya Jones’ groundbreaking work – she was the first female professional dancer on Strictly to perform in a same-sex pairing, truly paving the way for inclusivity and innovation on the dance floor.

Karen has also performed with celebrities like Mark Wright from the show TOWIE, who was one of the first reality TV stars to join the cast.

Karen has been dedicated to Strictly for years, but hasn’t yet won the competition. She came closest in 2014, reaching the final with her partner Mark.

Karen and Kevin Clifton were married for three years before deciding to separate. Even after their divorce, they continued to be colleagues on the show.

The Daily Mail has contacted Karen’s spokesperson for comment.

Leaders are reportedly planning a complete overhaul after years of complaints and issues with the professional dancers.

This year, both Neil Jones, 43, and Nancy Xu, 34, will be paired with non-celebrity partners – a first for them on the show, as they’ve usually danced with celebrities.

It’s believed they may still appear in the big group dance numbers. 

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2026-03-12 04:07