UMVA has learned that Janette Manrara, a beloved fixture on Strictly Come Dancing, has confirmed she's leaving the show after 14 incredible years.
The news marks the end of an era for fans who have grown accustomed to her charismatic presence on screen. Manrara has been hosting It Takes Two for five years and will no longer be a part of the main show or its spin-off.
However, Manrara revealed that she won't be completely disappearing from the scene. She'll still be involved in other ways, but this new chapter gives her the freedom to pursue projects she's always wanted to tackle but never had the chance to explore.
Manrara expressed a mix of excitement and trepidation about this significant career shift. She admitted that Strictly has been her entire world for 14 years, and navigating a new reality will be a challenge.
The upcoming changes in her life will be documented through her YouTube videos, where she plans to share her journey with fans. Manrara described it as a "big shift and change" and wants to bring her audience along for the ride.
As she prepares for this new chapter, Manrara confessed that the reality of her decision will hit her when she returns from her holiday. Her husband, Aljaž Škorjanec, will continue to be a part of Strictly as a professional dancer.
The recent shake-up at Strictly Come Dancing has resulted in several other departures. Other dancers who have left the series include Karen Hauer, Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas.
In addition to Manrara, presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will not be returning for the upcoming season, adding to the significant changes at the show.
