Strictly's Major Shake-Up

Janette Manrara Departs Strictly After 14 Years, Citing Major Career and Show Overhaul

Janette Manrara has confirmed she is leaving BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and its spin-off It Takes Two after a 14-year association, saying the show has changed hugely and she is no longer part of either program. In a YouTube video, the former professional dancer (who competed on Strictly from 2013 to 2020) and It Takes Two co-host since 2021 described the shift as a major career turning point and said she will remain involved in other ways while pursuing new projects. She also plans to document her transition through continued YouTube filming. Her exit is part of a broader overhaul ahead of Strictly’s September return, with Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe set to replace long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. Several professional dancers have also been dropped from the lineup, including Luba Mushtuk, Gorka Marquez, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, and Michelle Tsiakkas, a move that has been described as a “bloodbath” by outlets covering the show. Fans responded with support and disappointment across the commentary on her announcement.

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