The dance floor sensation and beloved star of “Strictly Come Dancing,” Janette Manrara, has embarked on a thrilling new adventure as she enters the realm of motherhood. The joyous news of the arrival of her first child with her fellow dance pro and adoring husband, Aljaž Škorjanec, has set hearts aflutter. With boundless happiness, the 39-year-old dancer took to her Instagram account to share the precious moment with her loyal followers. Alongside a heartfelt black and white photograph, Janette revealed the touching scene of herself resting in a hospital bed, tenderly cradling her newborn daughter, Lyra Rose Skorjanec, while Aljaž’s radiant hands lovingly encircled them both. This magical day took place on July 28, 2023, etching a moment of pure bliss in their lives.
An outpouring of congratulations and well-wishes erupted from friends and co-stars of the couple, as Gemma Atkinson, a former Strictly contestant and close friend, chimed in with delight, stating simply, “Just wonderful.” James Jordan, another cherished member of the Strictly family, added his warm regards and love from himself and his partner, the Jordans.
In the midst of this jubilation, Lisa Riley, who once graced the Strictly stage in 2012, shared her heartwarming message, assuring Janette and Aljaž that their beloved Lyra would be enveloped in unending love from her doting parents. Pro dancer Amy Dowden couldn’t help but gush, describing the captured moment as “utter perfection.” And former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips joined in, expressing her heartfelt sentiments and predicting an eternity of happiness and love for the radiant family.
The name Lyra, thoughtfully chosen by Janette and Aljaž for their precious daughter, holds a profound connection to their passion for dance and music. With roots in Greek mythology, the name draws inspiration from the enchanting lyre of Orpheus, whose music could move all beings, from animals to gods. Representing a gift for music-loving parents, the name Lyra will forever be a beacon of inspiration, urging their daughter to reach for the stars and follow her dreams.
The journey to parenthood for Janette and Aljaž has been one marked by unwavering determination and hope. Since exchanging vows in 2017, the couple ardently pursued their dream of starting a family, facing trials for over two years before embracing the miraculous news of their pregnancy. Filled with adoration, Janette lovingly praised her husband, acknowledging him as a “complete super dad” who shed tears of joy throughout their extraordinary journey. Playfully, she shared Aljaž’s unwavering devotion, jesting that he would gladly breastfeed their baby if he could.
Before the heartwarming revelation of her pregnancy, Janette faced uncertainties about motherhood as she approached her 40th birthday, contemplating the possibility of IVF treatment. However, fate had a magical 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 enjoyed a cherished babymoon in Aljaž’s native Slovenia.
As Janette takes a brief pause for maternity leave, fans of “Strictly Come Dancing” can rest assured that her hosting role on the beloved spin-off show “It Takes Two” was seamlessly covered by the talented Helen Skelton. With unyielding passion and love, Janette is all set to make a triumphant return to the show, resuming her hosting duties alongside the charismatic Fleur East, who was recently unveiled as Rylan’s replacement.
Surrounded by the unwavering support and adoration from their cherished Strictly family and devoted fans, Janette and Aljaž step into the enchanting world of parenthood, ready to dance through life’s most cherished moments hand in hand with their precious daughter, Lyra Rose Skorjanec.