Strictly Come Dancing professional Aljaz Skorjanec leaving BBC One show - what he said and how fans have reacted

The Slovenian dancer and choreographer, 32, joined the competition in 2013 and won in his debut year alongside model Abbey Clancy.

He is married to fellow dancer Janette Manrara and his departure comes less than a year after she stepped down from the show to become the co-host of spin-off It Takes Two.

Starting his dance career aged five in his native Slovenia, Skorjanec signed himself up for lessons in nursery without his parents’ knowledge.

He won 19 Slovenian championships in ballroom and Latin and later represented his country at world level.

In his debut series of Strictly, Skorjanec clinched the prize with Liverpudlian model and TV presenter Clancy during the first all-female final on the show.

In 2017, he reached the final with partner Atkinson but missed out to winners Joe McFadden and Katya Jones.

What did he say about leaving the show?

Skorjanec shared a series of photos on Instagram from his time on Strictly and said: “A little while ago I made the tough decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last.

“The show has given me an opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend for the last nine years.

“The love and support I got from the team of producers was second to none.

“Louise Rainbow, Sarah James, Kim Winston, Jack Gledhill are just a few of the unsung heroes behind the success of the show – I am forever grateful to them!”

Skorjanec said that “being a part of a group of professionals that inspire and push you to be better every step of the way is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever”.

He added: “Every year the line-up of dancers would change but one thing stayed the same, WE WERE THE BEST! And this is one thing that I know will never change on Strictly!”

He also thanked his celebrity partners including Clancy, presenter Alison Hammond, broadcaster Kate Silverton, actress Gemma Atkinson and BBC host Clara Amfo.

Ending his post, he said: “I have lots of exciting stuff planned that I will fill you in on soon. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!”

What did the show's executive producer say?

Strictly executive producer Sarah James said: “We are so sad to be saying goodbye to Aljaz after almost a decade as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.

“Since lifting the glitterball with Abbey Clancy in his debut series he has become a firm favourite with viewers across the country.

“During his nine series he has provided us with some unforgettable moments on the show through his incredible choreography, passion for dance and heart of gold.

“He will be missed by his Strictly family, both on and off the dancefloor, and we wish him only the very best as he embarks on his next chapter.”

How have fans reacted to his departure?

The news has been a big talking point among Strictly fans on Twitter, with the show's official account saying: "After nine fabulous years on the show we are so sad to see Aljaz Skorjanec leave #Strictly. Thank you partner for everything."

Gemma Smith said: "Gutted that @AljazSkorjanec is leaving #Strictly, my favourite male pro. Guess it was inevitable after Janette left."

Lara Morris said: "Just devastated! He's a brilliant dancer, so kind and funny! Good luck @AljazSkorjanec!"

Jill Gearing said: "So sad to hear that Aljaz is leaving Strictly. He brought so much joy to the programme. I will miss his cheeky, beaming smile that just lit up a room and his personality to match. Aljaz, you will be missed greatly, thank you for just being you. Good luck in all you do xx"

Clare Everitt: "NOOOOOOO!!! Aljaž has always been my favourite dancer since he started on the show. His permanent smile and obvious passion for what he does were a joy to see every week. I kind of expected it after Janette left but I am genuinely sorry to see him go."

Joyce Jordan said: "Oh no not Aljaz too, I'm sorry & sad to hear this. Aljaz is a fantastic dancer/choreographer & a really lovely man who has a great personality & great fun. No more seeing Aljaz waiting for the strapline on #ITT. I wish you the best of luck Aljaz you will be missed."

Lorraine Saunders said: "So sad but happy for @AljazSkorjanec you have given us so much joy over the years & I was lucky enough to meet you on a few occasions & you were so charming with an infectious smile your gonna leave a huge hole & strictly won't be the same without you."

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