Janette Manrara Admits Heartbreaking Fear Over Leaving Daughter as She Embarks on Major Career Move

Janette Manrara is preparing for an exciting new chapter in her career, but it comes with an emotional challenge. 

The Strictly: It Takes Two host has opened up about her fears of being away from her 19-month-old daughter, 

Lyra-Rose, as she takes on a demanding new role in musical theatre.

Janette, 41, who shares her daughter with Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec, 35, has landed the role of Roxie Hart in the iconic musical Chicago. 

The tour will see her performing across 20 venues in the UK and Ireland, marking her official musical theatre debut. 

While it is a thrilling opportunity for the former professional dancer, Janette has admitted that the idea of being apart from her young daughter for extended periods “scares” her.

Janette’s Emotional Confession on The One Show

During a recent appearance on The One Show, Janette spoke candidly about her excitement for her latest career move, as well as the challenges it presents for her family life. When host Roman Kemp asked if her husband and daughter would be joining her on the tour, Janette shared her concerns.

“That’s what kind of not worries me but scares me a little bit because it’s a long contract and to be away from her.”

She explained that Aljaz will be traveling to as many cities as possible to be by her side, including a special stop in Blackpool, a location that holds deep sentimental value for her due to her years on Strictly Come Dancing.

“We’re going to go back to Blackpool, and I’ve been there only with Strictly, so it’ll be interesting to go now with Chicago.”

Despite the challenges, Janette is determined to stay connected with her daughter throughout the tour. She revealed that she plans to fly home on her days off just to spend precious time with Lyra-Rose.

“I’m flying home on days off just to cuddle her as much as I can.”

Her honesty resonated with fellow One Show presenter Alex Jones, who acknowledged the delicate balance between career ambitions and motherhood. Janette agreed, saying, “Yeah,” emphasizing how difficult it is to juggle both responsibilities.

A ‘Village’ of Support for Lyra

Throughout her busy schedule, Janette has been incredibly grateful for the support system that helps care for her daughter. While she and Aljaz were both involved in the Strictly live tour, family members stepped in to look after Lyra, ensuring she was surrounded by love and care.

Janette took to social media to share her appreciation, highlighting the roles of Aljaz’s sister, brother-in-law, and parents, as well as her own mother.

“Being on the road with @strictlycomedancinglive is amazing, but as I’ve mentioned, it takes a village when it comes to making sure Lyra is happy and safe.”

She shared that Lyra had an incredible time with her aunt and uncle, writing:

“It’s safe to say, she had THE BEST time! Thank you to my awesome sister-in-law & her husband for being so incredible. We love you and I’m sure we’ll see you again soon!”

In another post, Janette expressed gratitude towards Aljaz’s parents, who stepped in during the final week of the tour.

“They had THE BEST time, and all the updates I kept getting from them were constant photos of Lyra smiling.”

Janette’s heartfelt messages emphasize how much family support means to her, particularly while she and Aljaz juggle their demanding careers.

Wynne Evans Controversy and Tour Exit

While Janette is focused on balancing her professional and personal life, she was recently caught up in an unexpected controversy involving Wynne Evans. The opera singer, 53, was removed from the Strictly live tour after making an inappropriate remark about Janette during a photocall.

The incident, which took place in front of multiple cast members, was caught on camera and later exposed by The Mail on Sunday. During the event, Janette was called to stand between Wynne and actor Jamie Borthwick for a photo. Wynne reportedly made a crude joke at Janette’s expense, pulling a suggestive face behind her back.

Aljaz, who was nearby, immediately sensed something was wrong and asked Janette, “Darling, are you OK?” She responded curtly with a simple, “Yep.”

Following the backlash, Wynne stepped down from the tour and has since withdrawn from his other work commitments. Reports suggest that the controversy may have lasting consequences for his career.

What’s Next for Janette?

Despite the emotional challenge of being away from her daughter, Janette remains excited about her upcoming role in Chicago. Taking on Roxie Hart is a significant step in her career, and fans are eager to see how she brings her dance expertise and stage presence to the world of musical theatre.

With Aljaz and their family offering unwavering support, Janette is determined to make the most of this opportunity while ensuring her daughter continues to feel loved and cared for.

As she takes this major career leap, Janette’s story is a reminder of the difficult choices working parents face—balancing professional success with the deep longing to be present for their children.

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