Karen Hauer, formerly the longest-serving professional dancer on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, has secured a major new role just weeks after her departure from the show was announced. Karen, one of five professional dancers not returning for the upcoming 2026 series, will star as dance teacher Mavis in the stage production Stepping Out, performing at Eastbourne’s Devonshire Park Theatre from August 13 to 29, with additional dates in Southend, Fareham, and Bromley.
Strictly Exit Shocks Fans
Last month, Karen was informed that her contract with Strictly Come Dancing would not be renewed as part of a shake-up aimed at freshening the professional dance roster. An insider described the decision as “out with the old and in with the new,” with Karen being visibly upset but staying positive about her future prospects.
New Stage Role Announced
In July, Karen revealed via Instagram her excitement at joining Stepping Out, calling it “a joyful, funny and deeply human story about finding confidence, connection and a little bit of magic through dance.” Fans can catch her performance at several venues this summer, marking a notable comeback to live dance after her BBC exit.
Strictly 2026 Lineup Changes
The BBC confirmed 15 returning professional dancers for the new Strictly series, with replacements set to be named soon following the exits of Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Michelle Tsiakkas, Nadiya Bychkova, and Luba Mushtuk. The show will also see new hosts and refreshed judging line-ups as it prepares for its autumn return.
Industry Shake-up Continues
In addition to changes on the main dancing show, the companion programme Strictly: It Takes Two is reportedly set to switch to a vodcast format, with current presenters Janette Manrara and Fleur East expected to depart. These moves reflect a broader reinvention of the Strictly brand ahead of the 2026 series.
