Aljaž Škorjanec leaves Strictly Come Dancing: Read the emotional statement UK News

Škorjanec joined the show at age 23, saying the Strictly dancefloor was the “nervousest” it had ever been.

In a statement on Instagram, the professional dancer admitted he made the difficult decision some time ago that the show’s 2021 series would be his last.

After nine fabulous years on the show, we’re so sad to see Aljaž Škorjanec go. #Strictly. Thank you partner for everything ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ouaWXiaak5

– BBC strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) March 28, 2022

BBC Strictly wrote on Twitter that they were “sad to say goodbye” but wish him well with his next chapter.

Read Aljaž Škorjanec’s statement

He announced his departure on Instagram. He wrote: “One beautiful sunny day in May 2013, a phone call changed my life forever!

“It just happened… We would like to offer you a position on @bbcstrictly as a professional dancer. A dream came true and this was the greatest opportunity for a 23 year old boy from Slovenia. Few no matter how many beautiful ballrooms I’ve played in during my competitive career, stepping onto the hallowed ground Strictly was the most nervous I’ve ever been.

“A short time ago I made the difficult decision that Strictly 2021 would be my last. The show has given me the opportunity and freedom to create and express myself in front of millions of people every weekend. over the past 9 years. The love and support I received from the team of producers was second to none. @jasongilkison, @sarahjamesface, @kimwinston, @jack.will.g are just a few of the unsung heroes behind the success of the series – I am eternally grateful to them!

“Being part of a group of professionals who inspire you and push you to be better at every step is humbling and I will carry that inspiration with me forever. Each year the composition of the dancers changed, but one thing remained the same, WE WERE THE BEST!And that’s one thing I know will never change on Strictly!

“Strictly also has the BEST behind-the-scenes team – hair and makeup team, costume department, lighting, sound, props and special effects, cameramen… THANK YOU!

“My beautiful partners.. It’s hard to put into words the number of beautiful memories we had. I LOVE YOU ALL!

“For my money…choosing songs, creating stories and choreography steps, we’ve always done it as a team. Your talent and selflessness know no bounds. We were able to perform with Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, BBC Symphony Orchestra…moments I will forever hold in my heart. I LOVE YOU!

“And finally, thank you to YOU, the people watching Strictly who have been so kind to me all these years. Every comment, vote, kind message has never gone unnoticed. You are the reason we all do it, thank you!

“I have a lot of exciting things planned that I will tell you about soon. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!

“KEEP DANCING!”

“Aljaz x”

Beginning his dancing career at the age of five in his native Slovenia, Skorjanec enrolled in kindergarten classes without his parents’ knowledge.

He won 19 Slovenian Ballroom and Latin Championships and went on to represent his country at world level.

In her first series, Skorjanec won the Glitter Ball trophy with model and TV presenter Liverpudlian Clancy in the show’s first all-female finale.

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

Sarah James, Executive Producer of Strictly, said: “We are so sad to say goodbye to Aljaz after almost a decade as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.

“Since he lifted the glitter ball with Abbey Clancy in his first series, he has become a favorite with viewers across the country.

“During his nine runs, he gave us unforgettable moments on the show through his incredible choreography, his passion for dance and his heart of gold.

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