Aljaž Å korjanec has announced he’s leaving Strictly Come Dancing after nine years on the show.
The professional dancer took to Instagram on Monday morning to share the news, sending a heartfelt message to those who supported him on his journey.
He wrote: “On a beautiful sunny day in May 2013 one phone call changed my life forever!”
“It went like this… We would like to offer you a position on @bbcstrictly as a professional dancer. A dream became a reality and it was the biggest opportunity for a 23 year old boy from Slovenia.”
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“It didn’t matter how many beautiful ballrooms I performed in during my competitive career, stepping onto the sacred Strictly floor was the most nervous I had ever been,” the 32-year-old continued.
“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 9 years.”
“The love and support I got 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 show – I am forever grateful to them!”
“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. Every year the lineup 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!”
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The Slovenian dancer wrote: “Strictly also has the BEST backstage team – the hair and make-up team, costume department, lighting, sound, props and special effects, camera operators… THANK YOU!”
“My beautiful partners.. It’s hard to put into words how many beautiful memories we have had. I LOVE YOU ALL!”
“To my bucka.. from picking songs, creating stories and choreographing steps we always did it as a team. Your talent and selflessness knows no bounds.”
“We got to perform with Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, BBC Symphony Orchestra.. moments I will keep in my heart forever. I LOVE YOU!”
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Aljaž concluded the lengthy post by writing: “And finally, thank YOU, the people that watch Strictly who have been so kind to me all these years. Every comment, vote, kind message never went unnoticed. You are the reason we all do it, thank you!”
“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! KEEEEEP DANCING! Aljaz x”
