Strictly Come Dancing star Karen Hauer has reflected on her time on the BBC show as she marked 14 years with the programme. She got emotional as she spoke about her late co-star

Strictly Come Dancing star Karen Hauer was in tears as she reflected on the death of her co-star.

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The dance professional – who had been partnered with Gladiators star Nitro, aka Harry Aikines-Aryeetey on the BBC show – broke down during an emotional segment on It Takes Two today.

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During a special segment on the spin-off show, Karen reflected on her time on the programme as she is now the professional who has been on the show for longest following Anton du Beke’s decision to become a judge a few years ago.

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During a reflection on her time on the show, she said: “When I came onto Strictly, I had no idea I’d be here for 14 years. Anton is now a judge so that means I’ve taken the place of the longest serving professional dancer. Thank you Anton.”

As she reflected on the people she had partnered with, talk soon turned to Dave Myers – the Hairy Bikers star – who she was paired with back in 2013, her second year on the programme.

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Speaking about him, she said: “Dave Myers was the first celebrity that I danced with that showed me how to be happy. We were dancing a salsa and he came up with the idea of being pushed in a trolley and I had a head full of fruit and he had maracas and ruffles. We were laughing with each other and we wanted everyone to join us in that.

“It was my second year on the show and I was quite lost with who I wanted to be on the show and how I wanted to present myself and he unlocked that key for me and went this is how you have fun Karen.”

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She cried as she remembered how he “showed her how to make fun of herself”. She added: “Since then I’ve definitely taken that on board. He took care of me and I just miss him. Sorry.”

Dave Myers died back in February 2024 following a battle with cancer. Si King – his Hairy Bikers co-star – paid tribute to his friend in a heartbreaking social media post at the time.

“My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow. I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime. I wish you god’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya,” he shared.

“I know Dave and his family would want me to thank all of you who sent messages of support in recent times,” he continued. “It meant the world to him, his family and all The Hairy Bikers team. I am sending you all much love and gratitude for those simple acts of kindness, generosity and spirit. We are eternally grateful for them.”