Rex Features
Tabloid reports claimed yesterday that she had been axed from the BBC reality show.
Hardy admitted that she will not be on the show as normal, but revealed that she has been working with producers so that she can participate in the new series in some capacity.
"I'm discussing new ways I can be involved in the show this year," she told The Sun.
Meanwhile, the BBC has rubbished claims that Hardy's departure is anything to do with her age, despite rumours that the 39-year-old is to be replaced by Katya Virshilas, 25, and Natalie Lowe, 28, in the forthcoming seventh series.
The broadcaster said that her departure had been a "mutual decision", adding: "She's been a fantastic dancer on Strictly for the past four years and we are in discussions with her as to what her new role will be in this year's series."
Hardy won Strictly Come Dancing in 2006 when she partnered former England cricketer Mark Ramprakash.
