Why did Aljaz Skorjanec quit Strictly as he announces return?
Aljaz Skorjanec will be returning to the Strictly ballroom after two years away and becoming a dad-of-one.
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Aljaz Skorjanec is rejoining the Strictly Come Dancing family this year but why did he leave in the first place?
The 34-year-old professional dancer has announced that after a two-year hiatus from the BBC dance show, he will be making a comeback for season 22 which starts later this year.
He shared that he would be leaving the competition in 2022 and has since become a dad to daughter Lyra who he shares with wife and fellow dancer Janette Manrara.
Why did Aljaz Skorjanec leave Strictly Come Dancing?
At the time of his departure, Aljaz released a statement, opening up on his personal struggles as well as his ambitions.
“A year and a half ago I hit an early midlife crisis and now I don't know what I want to do in my life," he said.
"I love talking now, so I love doing Q&As birthdays, calls - don't make me dance but I can talk for ages.”
Aljaz went on to add that he wished to “focus on other opportunities” that had been thrown his way.
At the time of leaving Strictly, he also shared he would be retraining to become an actor in the hope of getting his "foot in the door" by auditioning for Hollywood roles.
Going by his IMDb profile however, it doesn't appear that this has come to fruition for the dancer.
Since his exit, Aljaz has only appeared as himself in Celebrity Escape To The Country and RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs The World.
Thankfully, his absence was just temporary as the professional favourite shared this week that he would be returning later this year for season 22 of Strictly Come Dancing.
He excitedly commented: "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!"
Strictly Come Dancing will return later this year on BBC One.
