STRICTLY Come Dancing fans have admitted they are “switching off” the BBC reality series after the longest-serving pro Karen Hauer confirmed her exit.

She took to social media yesterday to bid an official farewell to the BBC One series after 14 years on-screen.

Illustration of the "Strictly Come Dancing" logo over a golden disco ball and blue background with light rays.
Strictly Come Dancing fans have admitted they are ‘switching off’ amid the recent line-up changesCredit: PA
 


Karen Hauer has quit the BBC series after 14 yearsCredit: Instagram
 


Bosses were quick to praise the pro after her exit was confirmedCredit: instagram/@bbcstrictly
 


Karen is much-loved by Strictly fansCredit: PA
Earlier this month, we reported how the BBC show’s longest-serving professional had been given the boot – with her pals branding the move “disgusting” and “shameful”.

Karen is leaving the show as part of widespread changes which have seen many long-standing professionals axed, while hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly revealed they had quit last year.

Previously, The Sun revealed that Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Neil Jones, 43, and Nancy Xu, 34, were the latest casualties of radical changes to the line-up.

Gorka Marquez, 35, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, are also said to be heading out of the door.

And just this weekend, we told how It Takes Two spin-off show anchors Fleur East and Janette Manrara had been dropped.

Now loyal viewers have suggested the series could soon wrap completely after the huge shake-up.

One took to X to write: “The downfall of Strictly looms!

“Getting rid of loads of fav pros and no matter who the new hosts are people will obviously say, ‘It’s not the same without Tess and Claudia!’”

Another put: “The #Strictly pros are dropping like flies! surprised there’s anyone left!”

One posted: “Doesn’t bode well for the new line-up. Dread to think who the new presenters are.”


Karen’s pals branded her departure as ‘shameful’Credit: PA


After Karen’s exit, fans predicted ‘the downfall of Strictly looms’Credit: Getty


Karen broke down in her emotional videoCredit: Instagram
An industry source told us: “Viewers will be shocked that this bloodbath has continued but bosses want a completely new look and fresh start for the show.

“Nobody feels safe at the moment but execs are determined to have a complete refresh after all the drama in recent years and create a new era”.

Over the weekend, Karen took to social media for her farewell video and said: “After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing I’ve decided it’s 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 hairstyles.”

“I’m going to miss everyone who makes the show possible,” she added.

She also said: “To my fellow professional dancers who I adore – I will always be cheering you on.”

Becoming tearful, she said: “Strictly will always be in my heart. I love you all.

Meanwhile Strictly’s executive producer Sarah James paid tribute to Karen – but was met with a swift fan backlash.

Additionally, Katya Jones has been handed a lifeline with a new one-year contract.


Fans noted how the pros are ‘dropping like flies’ after others including Nadiya Bychkova were axedCredit: PA
 


Gorka Marquez will not return for the next seriesCredit: Splash
 


Neil Jones’ services will also not be requiredCredit: BBC