Aljaž Škorjanec quits Strictly Come Dancing after nine years

Aljaž is leaving Strictly Come Dancing (Picture: WireImage)

Strictly Come Dancing’s Aljaž Škorjanec has confirmed he will be leaving the show after nine years.

The Slovenian dancer, 32, hailed his time on the BBC hit series a dream and recalled his first time on the Strictly dancefloor as the most ‘nervous’ he’s ever been.

In a statement, he said: ‘A little while ago I made the tough decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last. The show has given me an opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend for the last 9 years.

‘The love and support I got from the team of producers was second to none. Louise Rainbow, Sarah James, Kim Winston, Jack Gledhill are just a few of the unsung heroes behind the success of the show – I am forever grateful to them!

‘Being a part of a group of professionals that inspire and push you to be better every step of the way is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever. Every year the lineup of dancers would change but one thing stayed the same, WE WERE THE BEST!

The ballroom and Latin pro – who is married to It Takes Two host Janette Manrara – also shared a collage reflecting his time on the show.

‘And this is one thing that I know will never change on Strictly!

Aljaž also showed his gratitude to the ‘best backstage team’ before sharing a special shout-out to Janette.

He continued: ‘To my bucka.. from picking songs, creating stories and choreographing steps we always did it as a team. Your talent and selflessness knows no bounds.

‘We were dating when we started together on the show and now we are husband and wife. We got to perform with Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, BBC Symphony Orchestra.. moments I will keep in my heart forever. I LOVE YOU! 

‘And finally, thank YOU, the people that watch Strictly who have been so kind to me all these years. Every comment, vote, kind message never went unnoticed. You are the reason we all do it, thank you!

‘I have lots of exciting stuff planned that I will fill you in on soon. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!’

‘KEEEEEP DANCING!’ he added.

More on this story to follow…

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