Aljaz Skorjanec makes appearance on The One Show
BBC's Strictly Come Dancing favourite Neil Jones couldn't hide his enthusiasm as he reacted to the news that co-star Aljaz Skorjanec will waltz back onto our screens for the 2024 series, ending a two-year break taken for family reasons.
Neil expressed how delighted he was to BBC Morning Live hosts Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton as he appeared on the show for his usual Strictly Fitness segment.
The professional dancer shared that he'd be guiding viewers through steps featured in Aljaz and Abbey Clancy's Waltz routine. Aljaz and Abbey lifted the Glitterball Trophy during Aljaz's debut year on the show in 2013.
After demonstrating some waltz-inspired lower body workouts, Neil remarked to those tuning in: "And I'm really excited Aljaz is coming back."
Yet, Neil couldn't help but humorously note the implications of Aljaz's return on his own standing within the show, adding: "Funny thing actually, me and Gorka were going to be the longest-standing males on the show... not anymore now Aljaz is back. He's got a year on us both."
Gethin playfully chided: "Don't make it about yourself just be happy for Aljaz, okay Neil? Lovely."
Aljaz is set to make a glittering comeback to the Strictly dance floor in September, which he revealed on BBC's The One Show earlier this month.
After taking a break from the glitz of the competition last year, Aljaz has been embracing the joys of fatherhood with his daughter Lyra, whom he dotes on with Janette Manrara, his dancer spouse, reports Wales Online.
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Commenting on his much-anticipated return, he ecstatically shared: "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 dance floor."
Aljaz reflected fondly on his time away, stating: "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."
