Karen Clifton ‘to quit Strictly Come Dancing after this year and move to US’

Karen Clifton is reportedly looking to quit Strictly Come Dancing after this year.

The pro dancer is said to be hoping to relocate to the America and join the US show, Dancing With The Stars.

It follows her split from husband and fellow Strictly pro, Kevin Clifton.

A source claimed this weekend: “Once she’s completed all of her UK work commitments, she’s told pals she intends to pack up, sell up and get as far away as possible from Kevin.”

They told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: “She feels her time in the UK is done and she wants to be closer to members of her family who live in America. […]

“She feels there are more opportunities for her in the US and she already has many contacts in the TV world after starring in So You Think You Can Dance in 2009 before relocating to the UK.”

It’s not yet been officially announced if Karen – or Kevin – will be apart of this year’s Strictly.

However the pair say they plan to continue their professional relationship despite a personal split.

“We’ve always felt the best thing is to be honest with everyone and upfront and respectful to our fans,” Kevin told BBC Radio 2 earlier this year. “So we just wanted to do this now and let everyone know that actually, privately we’re not together any more.

“But professionally, we’re stronger than ever.”

Kevin added: “Dance is how we came together and is the glue that’s held us together for years now…. We’ve got a lot of love and respect for each other – I still pretty much see Karen every day.”

With the pair due to head out on tour later this year, Karen added: “We’ve such great chemistry… we love dancing together so much.

“We’re feeling very positive and we’re feeling this is going to be one of the best tours.”