Strictly Come Dancing legend returning as pro dancer

Aljaz Skorjanec is returning to 'Strictly Come Dancing' as a professional dancer.

The 34-year-old star will be back for the BBC Latin and ballroom show's 20th series later this year, following a two-year hiatus.

Aljaz - who quit 'Strictly' in 2022, a year after his wife Janette Manrara, who welcomed their first child, Lyra, into the world in July 2023 - said: "I could not be more ecstatic to be back with the 'Strictly' family.

"This year is such a special one for this legendary show, I can’t wait to be a part of it and make my return to the dancefloor.

"I had an absolute ball during my nine year stint on Strictly, during my time away I became a parent, which has been an exciting challenge in itself and now I’m ready to experience the 'Strictly' magic again.

"It feels so right to be coming back, I missed the fun, glitter and the judges of course and I hope to make my daughter Lyra proud!"

Sarah James, Executive Producer of 'Strictly Come Dancing', added: "We are all so thrilled that Aljaz is back in the 'Strictly' Ballroom, bringing his incredible choreography and passion for dance.

"During his nine series he was a firm favourite with viewers across the country, I’m sure everyone is in for a treat as he joins us to entertain the nation for a very special 20th year of the show."

News of Aljaz's return was first revealed on 'The One Show'.

Speaking about his two-year break from 'Strictly', he said on the programme: "I got to look after my beautiful wife, my beautiful baby for two years. But I missed everything about 'Strictly'."

Aljaz previously won the Glitterball Trophy alongside Abbey Clancey in 2013, his debut year on the show, and he finished runner up in 2017 alongside Gemma Atkinson.