Strictly Come Dancing star Karen Hauer has fueled speculation about her future on the show after a cryptic appearance on Good Morning Britain. 

The professional dancer, who has been a staple on the BBC competition since 2012, remained tight-lipped

when questioned about whether she would be returning for the 2025 season.

Karen appeared on the morning show alongside fellow Strictly pro Gorka Marquez to promote their upcoming dance tour, Speakeasy.

However, it was her response—or lack thereof—about her future on the dance show that caught viewers’ attention.

Karen’s Mysterious Response Sparks Speculation

During the interview, host Richard Madeley directly asked Karen if she would be back for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing. Rather than giving a clear answer, Karen simply smiled, prompting Richard to interpret her reaction as confirmation. “I’ll take that as a yes,” he joked.

However, co-host Kate Garraway pressed further, questioning whether Karen was uncertain about her return. Karen responded, “I can’t say. I don’t know!” Gorka then added, “Only they know,” referring to the BBC executives who make the final decisions on the show’s lineup.

Despite the uncertainty, both Karen and Gorka expressed their enthusiasm for the show, stating that they would be delighted to return if given the opportunity. “Of course,” Gorka said. “It’s the best entertainment show on telly, you know?”

Strictly’s Pro Dancer Shake-Up Looms

Karen’s response comes amid swirling rumors of a major shake-up among Strictly’s professional dancers. Reports surfaced months ago suggesting that several longtime pros could face the axe as part of a revamp ahead of the 2025 season.

Names speculated to be at risk include Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Neil Jones, and Katya Jones. According to Express Online, a show insider previously hinted that decisions regarding the professional lineup would depend on performances during the 2024 series.

“The review of the line-up has always been about making a fresh start,” the source claimed. “And that was always going to be affected by which dancers performed well this series.”

The insider went on to suggest that Strictly producers are looking to bring in fresh talent to balance out the existing cast. “The feeling is that the Strictly troupe is made up of some fading stars, while others are rising stars,” they explained. “In many cases, there are certain characters whose shoes can easily be filled with younger, up-and-coming counterparts.”

Karen’s Longstanding Strictly Career at Risk?

Karen Hauer has been a fixture on Strictly Come Dancing for over a decade, having joined the show in 2012. She has since become one of its most recognizable professionals, partnering with a variety of celebrity contestants over the years.

However, the past season may have put her position in jeopardy. Karen, along with Neil Jones and Nadiya Bychkova, was among the first dancers eliminated from the 2024 competition. Katya Jones, another rumored name on the chopping block, lasted until Blackpool Week before being sent home alongside her partner, Wynne Evans.

Historically, early eliminations have played a role in Strictly’s professional shake-ups, with those who exit early often being at higher risk of being replaced. The source suggested that producers see the early exits as a “landmark point” in evaluating which pros should stay and which should go.

Fans React to Potential Changes

While the BBC has not yet confirmed any changes to the Strictly pro lineup, fans have been vocal about their concerns regarding potential exits. Many viewers have expressed their hopes that Karen and Gorka will remain on the show, praising their talent and chemistry with their celebrity partners.

Karen’s reluctance to confirm her return has only fueled speculation that she may be preparing to say goodbye to Strictly. Meanwhile, Gorka’s uncertainty has left fans wondering whether he too could be at risk.

What’s Next for Karen Hauer?

Regardless of whether she returns to Strictly, Karen Hauer has plenty to keep her busy. She and Gorka Marquez are currently preparing for their dance tour, Speakeasy, which promises to bring a fresh and exciting experience to fans.

While Strictly’s professional lineup remains uncertain, one thing is clear—Karen Hauer has left an indelible mark on the show. Whether she continues to grace the Strictly dance floor or moves on to new projects, her talent and passion for dance will undoubtedly continue to shine.

As the BBC prepares to make its final decisions, Strictly fans will be eagerly awaiting official confirmation on which pros will return for the 2025 series. Until then, Karen’s coy response on Good Morning Britain will only keep the speculation alive.