Strictly Come Dancing professional makes shock admission as she says 'I want to go back'

A Strictly Come Dancing professional has revealed she wants to return to the show.

Hosting the BBC's spin-off programme, It Takes Two, alongside Fleur East, Janette Manrara is well-remembered as a former professional dancer on the main show. In an engaging exchange with head judge Shirley Ballas this evening, Janette disclosed her desire to step back into the spotlight.

When the conversation swung to what Shirley would choose if she were to take to the dancefloor herself, she hinted at a dance with Anton du Beke and then turned the question to Janette, who excitedly exclaimed: "I want to go back!"

Janette was a fan favourite during her time on Strictly, having graced the dance arena since 2013 before her departure announcement in 2021. Reflecting on her exit, she remarked: "I'll definitely be an even bigger cheerleader, now I'm not involved. I've always been everybody's cheerleader, but especially of Aljaz because he's my husband; we're each other's biggest fan.

"So it's going to be a different dynamic for us but, nonetheless, an exciting one. I'm still gonna be on the sidelines on a Saturday night cheering him and everyone else on - like some kind of Strictly groupie!"

Her spouse Aljaz Skorjanec has made a comeback to the series this year, after leaving a few series ago.

He expressed his excitement about returning: "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.

"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!

*Strictly: It Takes Two airs weekdays on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.