BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Janette Manrara says 'it's called balance' after stage debut news

Janette Manrara has shared a sweet video in which she could be seen alongside her husband Aljaz Skorjanec and their daughter which was filmed just before she announced she'll soon be making her stage debut.

Fans best know the dancer and TV presenter for being a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing from 2013 to 2021. It was then announced in 2021 that Janette would become the new co-host of the hit dance show's spin-off, It Takes Two.

But in a matter of weeks, Janette will be taking on a new role. The 41-year-old will join the UK and Ireland tour of CHICAGO as Roxie Hart, making her musical theatre debut, which includes a visit to the Lowry, Salford from Monday 25 to Saturday 30 August 2025.

Janette said in a statement: "This is a dream come true! To have my musical theatre debut be playing the iconic Roxie Hart is so exciting. She is a beautifully complex character, and I cannot wait to bring my ‘Roxie’ to the stage."

She added: "I truly look forward to working with the incredible cast and the whole team of one of the best musicals of all time. Looking forward to seeing everyone that comes to the show and giving them a real ‘razzle dazzle’ of a show!"

She's since returned to Instagram after being flooded with messages congratulating her on the news from her Strictly co-stars and celebrity pals.

She shared a video which Aljaz had recorded of her and Janette singing to their daughter, Lyra Rose, before she became more animated and started talking and laughing. Alongside the clip, Janette wrote: "Right before the news of 'Roxie' came out, we were doing this...

"I love my Bucko for being the most inredible partner in life. It's called balance." The mum-of-one added: "Mamia and Ati love you, Lyrs [stars emojo]."