Janette Manrara, the dazzling and much-admired star of “Strictly Come Dancing,” has now taken center stage in the wondrous world of motherhood. Celebrations abound as Janette and her husband and fellow dance partner, Aljaž Škorjanec, announce the arrival of their first child. Overflowing with happiness, the 39-year-old dancer shared the heartwarming news on her Instagram account, revealing a candid black and white photograph of herself lying in a hospital bed, cradling her precious daughter, Lyra Rose Skorjanec, while Aljaž’s beaming hands gently embraced them both. This memorable moment occurred on July 28, 2023, etching an indelible mark on their lives.
Messages of love and congratulations poured in from friends and co-stars of the couple, with Gemma Atkinson, a former Strictly contestant and dear friend, expressing her elation with a simple and heartfelt “Just wonderful.” James Jordan, another esteemed member of the Strictly family, sent warm wishes and love from himself and his partner, the Jordans.
Joining the chorus of well-wishers, Lisa Riley, a familiar face from Emmerdale and a participant in Strictly’s 2012 season, conveyed her joy with a touching message. She assured Janette and Aljaž that little Lyra would be enveloped in boundless love from her devoted parents. Pro dancer Amy Dowden, captivated by the beautiful moment, couldn’t help but gush about the perfection of it all. Former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips added her voice, predicting years of happiness and love ahead for the new family.
The name Lyra, carefully chosen by Janette and Aljaž for their baby girl, holds a deep connection to their passion for dance and music. With its origins in Greek mythology, the name draws inspiration from the legendary lyre of Orpheus, a musical instrument whose harmonies enchanted animals, trees, and even the gods. Symbolizing a gift to music-loving parents, the name Lyra serves as a tender reminder for their daughter to reach for her dreams and aspirations like the stars above.
The couple’s journey to parenthood had been one of unwavering determination and hope. Tying the knot in 2017, they embarked on the path of starting a family, facing challenges for over two years before finally embracing the miraculous news of their pregnancy. Amidst the joy, Janette lovingly praised her husband, describing him as a “complete super dad” who shed tears of happiness throughout their extraordinary pregnancy journey. In a lighthearted tone, Janette playfully shared that Aljaž’s devotion to their baby was so profound that he would happily breastfeed if it were possible.
Before the delightful revelation of her pregnancy, Janette had faced uncertainties about becoming a mother as she approached her 40th birthday, even contemplating the idea of IVF treatment. However, destiny had a beautiful surprise in store for the couple, as they discovered the precious life growing within Janette.
Recently settling into their new home in Cheshire, close to dear friends and fellow Strictly stars Gorka Marquez and Gemma Atkinson, the expectant couple took some cherished time off for a memorable babymoon in Aljaž’s native Slovenia.
As Janette takes a brief hiatus for maternity leave, fans of “Strictly Come Dancing” will be delighted to know that her hosting role on the popular spin-off show “It Takes Two” was seamlessly handled by the talented Helen Skelton. With determination and love, Janette is all set to make a triumphant return to the show, resuming her hosting duties alongside the ever-entertaining Fleur East, who was recently unveiled as Rylan’s replacement.
With the immense support and adoration from their cherished Strictly family and devoted fans, Janette and Aljaž embark on a magical journey of parenthood, stepping into life’s most cherished moments hand in hand with their precious daughter, Lyra Rose Skorjanec.
