BBC bosses have hit back at claims that Strictly Come Dancing has descended into ‘chaos’ with the late arrival of Aljaz Skorjanec.

Critics have said that the fact he was drafted in at the last minute was shrouded in ‘mystery’ and pointed to the Corporation being in the grip of “panic” in the wake of the claims against Giovanni Pernice. They pointed to the fact he was quietly revealed on the BBC’s own programme, The One Show, on Monday evening and that the media weren’t informed in advance.

But BBC sources have hit back saying the late arrival was part of a Strictly plan. The source said: “Not all pros have always been announced together and some have been added at a later stage previously. Aljaz is well known to viewers so it’s nice to give fans of the show a surprise announcement of the 20th anniversary.”

Aljaz Skorjanec and wife Janette Manrara
Aljaz Skorjanec and wife Janette Manrara wow on the dance floor ( 
Image: NO
BBC/Guy Levy)

Aljaz, 34 left Strictly in 2022 to have a baby with his wife and It Takes Two Host Janette Manrara. He starred in nine series of the show, raising the Glitterball in his debut year on the show in 2013 and was a runner up in 2017 with partner, Gemma Atkinson. Announcing his return, he said “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!”

Janette Manrara and Aljaz Skorjanec at the 2023 Pride of Britain Awards on 8th October 2023
Aljaz Skorjanec and his wife Janette Manrara ( 
Image: NO
Daily Mirror)

Undated BBC handout photo of Viscountess Emma Weymouth with her dance partner Aljaz Skorjanec who are appearing in this year's BBC1 dance contest, Strictly Come Dancing.
Viscountess Emma Weymouth with her dance partner Aljaz ( 
Image: NO
Ray Burmiston/BBC/PA Wire)

Sarah James, Executive Producer of Strictly Come Dancing added; “ “We are all so thrilled that Aljaž is back in the Strictly Ballroom, bringing his incredible choreography and passion for dance. During his nine series he was a firm favourite with viewers across the country, I’m sure everyone is in for a treat as he joins us to entertain the nation for a very special 20th year of the show.”