Strictly Come Dancing star Nitro has paid tribute to Karen Hauer, after discovering he would be her last celebrity partner on the BBC One programme.
Karen first joined Strictly in 2012, going on to become its longest-serving female dancer.
However, earlier this year, she revealed she would be stepping down from the show – the first pro to do so after a rumoured “bloodbath”.
The likes of Gorka Marquez, Michelle Tsiakkas and Nadiya Bychkova followed suit, with Strictly now undergoing a major shake-up and three new hosts announced as replacements for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
At the time of announcing her exit, Karen shared an emotional video praising Strictly for “changing my life” and teasing “new projects in other areas that I’m passionate about”.
View 5 ImagesGladiators star Nitro, real name Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, was partnered with Karen in last year’s series of Strictly (Image: PA)
Her latest celebrity partner, Gladiators star Nitro, has now shared his support for her.
The athlete, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, spoke to The Daily Mirror ahead of Soccer Aid for Unicef, where he’s joining stars such as Sam Thompson, Tom Hiddleston, GK Barry and Chloe Burrows on the pitch.
He said: “It’s kind of crazy, being Karen’s last partner and that whole process is just one of those things where you’re like, wow, I’m part of a legend’s story.
“I’m just honoured, because she’s amazing in every type of way.”
View 5 ImagesThe pair finished in ninth place in the competition (Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Sharing his advice for next year’s contestants, with rumours swirling over who could be taking to the dancefloor, Nitro continued: “Enjoy it, embrace it, have fun with it. It’s a moment in time that you just appreciate.”
Nitro went on to talk about Soccer Aid taking place this Sunday, admitting: “I’m feeling a bunch of emotions. I’m excited, slightly nervous, but most importantly, I’m just happy to be here.
“Being here for one of the best causes ever and having the most fun ever is success and enjoyment in one thing.”
Karen and Nitro finished ninth in Strictly last year, which saw footballer Karen Hauer win with Carlos Gu.
View 5 ImagesNitro said he was ‘honoured’ to be Karen’s last Strictly partner (Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Months later, in March, Karen confirmed her exit from Strictly, saying: “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.”
She went on to say: “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.
View 5 ImagesKaren tearfully shared she was stepping down from Strictly in a video earlier this year (Image: Karen Hauer/Instagram)
“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. To my fellow professional dancers who I adore – I will always be cheering you on.”
Becoming emotional, Karen concluded: “Strictly will always be in my heart. I love you all.”
Nitro was among those sharing his support, commenting on her post: “A true inspiration! Purely unique! Thank you for everything! Cant wait for the next chapter.”
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Soccer Aid for Unicef takes place on Sunday, May 31.