Karen Strictly refers to Karen Hauer, the longest-serving professional dancer on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, or Karen Carney, the former footballer and sports broadcaster who is a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing 2025. This comprehensive guide covers both individuals, detailing their careers, achievements, personal stories, and what to expect for fans and viewers of the show. Readers will learn about Karen Hauer’s rise as a professional dancer, her global accolades, and her impact on the dance world, as well as Karen Carney’s journey from football legend to television star and her inspiring progress on Strictly Come Dancing. The article also provides practical information for fans, including show details, viewing tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Karen Hauer: Professional Dancer
Karen Hauer is a Venezuelan-American dancer best known for her role as a professional on Strictly Come Dancing since 2012. Born in Valencia, Venezuela, she moved to New York at age eight and began her dance training at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance. Karen’s career highlights include winning the World Mambo Championship in 2008 and being a finalist on the U.S. reality show So You Think You Can Dance in 2009. She has also starred as a principal dancer in the Broadway production Burn the Floor and has worked with celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez.
Karen’s longevity on Strictly Come Dancing is unmatched among female professionals. She has danced with celebrities including Mark Wright, Jeremy Vine, Will Young, and Chris Ramsey. Her performances are known for their energy, creativity, and technical precision. Karen has also launched her own fitness brand, Hauer Power, which offers workout programmes inspired by her dance routines.
Achievements and Recognition
Karen Hauer’s accolades include World Mambo Champion (2008), Professional American Rhythm Rising Star Champion (2009), and finalist appearances on Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 and 2020. She has also toured internationally with Burn the Floor and appeared on So You Think You Can Dance USA. Her influence extends beyond the ballroom, as she is a sought-after choreographer and fitness instructor.
Karen Carney: Footballer and Strictly Contestant
Karen Carney is an English sports journalist and former professional footballer, best known for her career with Birmingham City, Arsenal, and Chelsea. She made her debut for Birmingham City at age 14 and earned 144 caps for England, making her the third-most-capped player in the nation’s history. Karen has competed in four World Cups and four European Championships, winning domestic and international trophies before retiring in 2019.
Karen transitioned to broadcasting after her football career, joining Sky Sports as a lead Women’s Super League pundit in 2021. She also became a regular on ITV’s football coverage and joined TNT Sports in 2024. Karen’s participation in Strictly Come Dancing 2025 has been marked by resilience and determination, especially as she manages a spinal condition that affects her posture and movement on the dance floor.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Journey
Karen Carney’s Strictly journey began with a standout performance in the first week, scoring 31 points and topping the leaderboard. Despite fluctuating scores, she has remained a fan favorite, achieving her second-highest score of 28 points in later weeks. Karen and her partner, Carlos Gu, are among the final six contestants, aiming for a spot in the grand finale scheduled for December 20, 2025.
Karen has been open about her health challenges, including a curved spine that makes some dance moves more difficult. Her honesty and perseverance have inspired viewers and fellow contestants. She credits her support network for helping her through difficult times, including suicidal thoughts and a period of sleeping pill addiction, which she has bravely shared with the public.
Practical Information and Planning
Strictly Come Dancing Viewing
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 airs on BBC One every Saturday night from September to December. The show features live performances, celebrity dancers, and professional partners, with weekly eliminations leading to a grand finale. Tickets for live audience participation are released via the BBC website and are highly sought after.
How to Watch and Engage
- Air Time: Saturdays at 7:00 PM (UK time)
- Tickets: Available on the BBC website; applications open several months before the series begins
- Cost: Free for live audience tickets, but limited availability
- Online Viewing: Episodes are available on BBC iPlayer after broadcast
- Audience Tips: Arrive early for the best seats; dress for a festive atmosphere; expect long rehearsals and live voting
What to Expect
Strictly Come Dancing combines ballroom and Latin dance with entertainment, celebrity guests, and themed weeks. Each episode features group routines, individual performances, and judges’ critiques. The show’s finale is a spectacular event held at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom or a similar venue, featuring all remaining contestants and special performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Karen Strictly?
Karen Strictly can refer to Karen Hauer, the professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, or Karen Carney, the footballer and contestant on the 2025 series.
How long has Karen Hauer been on Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Hauer has been a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing since 2012, making her the longest-serving female pro on the show.
What are Karen Hauer’s dance achievements?
Karen Hauer is a World Mambo Champion (2008), Professional American Rhythm Rising Star Champion (2009), and has performed in major productions such as Burn the Floor.
Who is Karen Carney?
Karen Carney is a former England footballer with 144 caps, a sports broadcaster, and a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing 2025.
What football teams did Karen Carney play for?
Karen Carney played for Birmingham City, Arsenal, and Chelsea, winning multiple domestic and international trophies.
When did Karen Carney join Strictly Come Dancing?
Karen Carney joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2025 as a contestant, partnering with professional dancer Carlos Gu.
What is Karen Carney’s health issue?
Karen Carney has a spinal condition that affects her posture and makes some dance moves challenging.
What is Karen Hauer’s background?
Karen Hauer was born in Venezuela, moved to New York as a child, and trained at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance before becoming a world-renowned dancer.
How can I get tickets to Strictly Come Dancing?
Tickets are released via the BBC website and are free, but highly competitive.
What is the Strictly Come Dancing finale date for 2025?
The grand finale is scheduled for December 20, 2025.
Is Karen Carney still competing on Strictly Come Dancing?
Yes, Karen Carney is among the final six contestants as of November 2025.
What is Karen Hauer’s fitness brand?
Karen Hauer’s fitness brand is called Hauer Power, offering workout programmes inspired by her dance routines.
Can I watch Strictly Come Dancing online?
Yes, episodes are available on BBC iPlayer after broadcast.
How many times has Karen Hauer reached the Strictly final?
Karen Hauer has reached the Strictly final twice (2014 and 2020).
What is Karen Carney’s broadcasting career?
Karen Carney is a lead Women’s Super League pundit for Sky Sports, covers major tournaments for ITV, and joined TNT Sports in 2024.
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