In an exclusive interview, Strictly Come Dancing favourite Aljaž Škorjanec has broken his silence on the recent wave of controversial departures from the BBC show, described in headlines as a 'bloodbath'. The Slovenian professional dancer, 36, also opened up about his family life, including teaching his two-year-old daughter Lyra Slovenian and missing his wife Janette Manrara on Mother's Day.
Addressing the Strictly 'Axings'
Speaking at a special event for LEON's Regent Street restaurant, transformed into a classic British seaside chippy for a weekend, Škorjanec addressed the backlash over the recent batch of Strictly 'axings'. "We're all awaiting the official announcement," he said. "They don't announce the names of dancers returning until it's confirmed. Whatever the Strictly bosses do, it's in the interest of the show, and we always support their decisions."
The dancer, who returned to Strictly in 2024 after a two-year hiatus, expressed hope for his own return while acknowledging the emotional impact of colleagues leaving. "I've been lucky enough to do the show for a long time, and last year was my 11th season," Škorjanec explained. "I've seen a lot of people come and go. It's always sad to see someone go, but it's equally exciting to see new faces, fresh energy, and people who bring something different."
Evolution of the Show
Škorjanec emphasized that cast changes help keep Strictly Come Dancing vibrant and evolving. "Absolutely, it means the show never gets stale," he stated. "Also, every celebrity I dance with is different every year, so no day is ever the same. Whoever is standing next to you, it's all about them, and they're always different people. That's why I love Strictly."
Reflecting on the show's unique appeal, he added: "It's for anyone and everyone. Especially now, when live TV is becoming rarer, it's the only big show left on that scale filmed live. It's for kids, grandparents, family, it brings people together."
Family First Approach
Škorjanec revealed that his 2022 departure from Strictly was motivated by family priorities. "I left because I knew I wanted to be a hands-on dad and a good husband to a pregnant wife," he shared. "I was lucky enough to put everything on hold and focus solely on family. I did that for a couple of years, and then came back, and I'm actually the only pro ever in the history of the show to be brought back."
The dancer spoke warmly about working with his wife Janette Manrara, who presents Strictly's sister show It Takes Two. "I am glad she is still part of the show and my favourite TV presenter in the UK," he gushed. When asked about potential hosting roles for Manrara on the main show, Škorjanec remained diplomatic: "I can't put money on anyone."
Balancing Work and Parenthood
Škorjanec and Manrara are preparing for their summer tour, "Let's Face the Music and Dance", which has become a family affair. "Lyra comes along with us, and we have to see which grandparents are free so we can rotate them to help during the live show," he explained. With both sets of grandparents living abroad in Slovenia and Miami, childcare presents challenges. "Janette and I have just had to make it work. Trying to balance work and life is tricky for everyone; we're just making it work the best we can."
The dancer emphasized his commitment to fatherhood: "I love being hands-on. Careers come and go, opportunities come and go, but time doesn't. My little one is only little once, I'm not missing a moment."
Cultural Connections and Daily Life
Škorjanec is particularly focused on teaching his daughter Slovenian. "I'm adamant she learns Slovenian, so teaching her that is my favourite right now," he said. "I had to learn English early on, and it helped me learn more languages later."
When asked about missing his family on Mother's Day, with Manrara and Lyra visiting family in Miami, Škorjanec revealed their approach to special occasions: "We create our own little holidays when we are together. Every day can be Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Women's Day. That's what makes the actual holidays more bearable."
Friendships and Food Preferences
The interview took place at a LEON event, where Škorjanec discussed his friendship with founder John Vincent, which began when Vincent's wife Katie Derham competed on Strictly in 2015. "We became really close on Strictly," Škorjanec recalled. "He's one of the people I still keep in touch with, even all these years since Katie took part. I love him; he's one of the funnest and best people in my life."
As a dancer, Škorjanec watches his diet carefully, but praised LEON for offering healthy fast food options. "I'm a huge LEON fan! Ever since I moved to the UK," he said. "I think it's genius, fast food that's actually good and clean." During his off-season, he admitted: "This is probably the time I'm eating the worst. But LEON helps me keep it in check."
Škorjanec and Manrara will tour with "Let's Face the Music and Dance" across the UK in April and May, continuing their decade-long partnership that now includes their young daughter in their touring family.
