The BBC has confirmed that five members of Strictly Come Dancing’s professional line-up have left the show, as preparations begin for this year’s series.
Karen Hauer, the show’s longest-serving female pro, has departed after 14 years. She said in March that she had “decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects”.
Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas are also leaving, with the BBC yet to announce their replacements.
Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke will all return, but there’s still no news about who will replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly as hosts.