Home / Arts and Entertainment / Aljaž Škorjanec: Dad, Husband, Dancer & Beyond
Aljaž Škorjanec: Dad, Husband, Dancer & Beyond
15 Mar
Summary
- Aljaž Škorjanec prioritizes family time over career opportunities.
- He aims to teach his daughter Lyra the Slovenian language.
- Aljaž enjoys fast food that is good and clean, like LEON.

Aljaž Škorjanec, a prominent figure from Strictly Come Dancing, recently shared insights into his life beyond the ballroom. He revealed his decision to step back from the show in 2022 to focus on being a dedicated father and husband, a choice he considers unique in the show's history. As of March 15, 2026, his return for future seasons remains subject to official announcements, though he expressed a desire to continue participating.
Škorjanec detailed his commitment to hands-on parenting, highlighting the importance of spending time with his daughter, Lyra, who is now two years old. A significant personal goal is teaching Lyra the Slovenian language, a skill he believes will benefit her linguistic development. He also shared that his wife, Janette Manrara, and Lyra have been spending time in Miami with family, balancing work commitments with maintaining familial connections.
Beyond his dancing career, Škorjanec expressed enthusiasm for healthy fast food, citing LEON as a preferred option. He noted that the chain's offerings help him manage his diet, particularly during his off-season. Škorjanec also maintains strong friendships from his time on Strictly, including with John Vincent, founder of LEON, whom he met through his wife Katie Derham's participation in the show.
Looking ahead, Škorjanec and Manrara continue their joint ventures, including their ongoing decade-long dance tour, 'Let's Face the Music and Dance.' These performances are often a family affair, with Lyra accompanying them. The couple adeptly manages childcare challenges, rotating grandparents to assist during their shows, demonstrating a strong family support system.




