The world of Strictly Come Dancing is twirling with joy today as Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara, the beloved couple of the ballroom, have officially announced the news that fans have been eagerly awaiting — they’re expecting baby number two! 🌟
After months of subtle hints, low-key appearances, and cryptic captions about “new beginnings,” Aljaž and Janette confirmed the exciting news in the most heartwarming way. Their joint announcement has melted hearts across the globe, reminding fans why they remain the beating heart of the Strictly family — graceful, grounded, and wonderfully real.
👶 A Growing Family and a New Chapter
Janette, 41, and Aljaž, 35, shared the news that their second baby is due in early 2026, just as their daughter Lyra turns two. In an emotional interview, Janette laughed, saying, “We’ve been sitting on this for so long. Lyra’s first year was magical but chaotic — sleepless nights, filming, and travel. This baby feels like our cue to slow down and rewrite the script.”
Aljaž, ever the calm presence, added, “People think we’re invincible, but fatherhood changes your rhythm. The real dance isn’t on the floor — it’s at home, in the quiet moments.”
Their announcement was accompanied by a beautiful Instagram Reel, where the couple shared a touching video of themselves slow-dancing in their sunlit living room, with little Lyra toddling between them. The clip also revealed an ultrasound image, with the heartfelt caption: “Our family’s growing… and so is our dream.” The video quickly went viral, with over five million views and an outpouring of love from fans and fellow dancers alike.
🌍 A New Dance Venture
But this announcement isn’t just about baby number two! The couple also revealed their new project: Dance Without Limits, a global online dance academy that will offer livestreamed classes, personal coaching, and interactive challenges starting in spring 2026. Aljaž explained, “We want to bring ballroom to everyone, from kids dancing in small-town living rooms to grandparents who just want to waltz again. No fancy studios, no pressure, just passion.”
Janette shared that the idea was sparked by messages from people worldwide who wanted to learn from them. “We’ve had messages from people around the world saying, ‘Teach us like you taught each other,’” she said. Their goal is simple: to make dance accessible to all, one step at a time.
💃 A Love Story Fans Have Watched Grow
From their first pairing on Strictly in 2013, Aljaž and Janette have been the show’s most enchanting duo — both on and off the dance floor. Their love story blossomed under the studio lights, leading to their wedding in 2016 and the arrival of their miracle baby, Lyra, born after a long IVF journey the couple bravely shared with fans.
Janette reflected on the ups and downs of their marriage: “Life isn’t perfect — sometimes you fall out of step, but love teaches you how to move again.” The couple’s relationship has been a shining example of love, teamwork, and unwavering support for each other through every twist and turn, both on the dance floor and in their personal lives.
💖 A Sweet Reaction from Strictly Legends
As expected, the announcement sent Strictly Nation into a whirlwind of joy. Fans flooded social media with messages like: “The most beautiful couple ever — this news just made my week!” and “From Blackpool to baby bottles, they make life look magical!”
Even Strictly legends couldn’t resist joining in the celebration. Tess Daly wrote, “Double the sparkle, double the love! 💕 So thrilled for you both.” While Craig Revel Horwood cheekily added, “Darlings, may your next baby inherit your fabulousness — and none of your dropped frames!”
Claudia Winkleman couldn’t hold back, commenting, “This made me cry. And dance. 🖤”
💫 A Future Full of Love and Dance
As Aljaž and Janette prepare for their second baby, they’re also preparing to make a major impact in the dance world with Dance Without Limits. “We’re not stepping away from Strictly,” Aljaž clarified. “We’re stepping into something bigger. This next chapter is about teaching others to find their rhythm — on the floor, and in life.”
With a growing family and a new venture on the horizon, Aljaž and Janette continue to prove that love, laughter, and teamwork are the foundations of their journey. As they dance through life’s changes, they remind us all what real love looks like — grace, strength, and the courage to keep twirling together, no matter what comes next.
