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Janette Manrara shares cryptic post as Strictly pro line-up confirmed

Former Strictly star Janette Manrara left the main show in 2021

Online News Writer & Diversity and Inclusion Lead
April 21, 2023

Janette Manrara was a beloved dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, before she swapped her dancing shoes for her presenting ones and became one of the hosts on sister show, It Takes Two.

On Friday, the dancer, who is known for her positivity, shared an inspiring post that read: "I've fallen in love with doing my own thing. Nourishing my mind & body while creating the life I really want. I love it here." Her message coincidentally came as the same time that Strictly confirmed its line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series, which will air in the autumn.

WATCH: Janette Manrara takes to the dancefloor at BAFTAs party

Given Janette's closeness with the show, it's unlikely the post was a subtle dig, and she even shared a post from the official Strictly account that confirmed the line-up.

Fans can expect to see show hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman return, alongside judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas, who had sparked rumours she might leave the show due to online abuse.

MORE: Janette Manrara and Aljaz Skorjanec share tearful family reunion video on surprise 'babymoon' trip

The post also confirmed the return of all the professional dancers, with the exception of South African-born Cameron Lombard.

Cameron joined the show back in 2021 and been a familiar face in the dance troupe, often appearing in the pro numbers. However, the dancer himself was never partnered with a celebrity while on the show.

The news also confirmed that Gorka Marquez would be returning, with him being the first pro to appear in the video, ending speculation that he would be leaving the show.

Speculation was further fuelled when the Spanish pro didn't join his partner, Helen Skelton, on the Strictly Live Tour, although he revealed it was in order to spend time with his family after a busy few months.

Despite all the returnees, Strictly fans will be seeing one less face as Janette's It Takes Two co-host, Rylan Clark has left the show.

Announcing the news, the 34-year-old posted a snap of himself from the show with a statement that read: "After four fantastic years it's time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two. I've had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette and Zoe and I can't thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show.

"I've been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me. The time has come for me to pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me. Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart and dancing feet."

SEE: Janette Manrara showcases blooming baby bump in sweetest behind-the-scenes photo

WOW: Pregnant Janette Manrara beams in sunshine yellow summer dress

Rylan's replacement has not yet been confirmed, nor who may fill in for Janette if she is on maternity leave when the show begins in autumn.

The celeb line-up for the upcoming series is also yet to be confirmed, but rumoured celebrities include Downton Abbey's Amy Nuttall, footballer Peter Crouch and married couple Matt and Emma Willis.

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