Janette Manrara has publicly shown her support for her husband, Aljaz Skorjanec, after he and actress Melanie Walters lost their place in Strictly Come Dancing's 2026 series.
The Gavin & Stacey star, known for playing Gwen West in the BBC comedy, had been partnered with the professional dancer since the new series began last month.
Charleston score and dance-off
On Saturday night (October 10), the couple performed a Charleston to Ooh Ahh… Just A Little Bit by Gina G., receiving a score of 17. Judge Craig Revel Horwood said he “didn’t love” their dance, while Motsi Mabuse encouraged her to "keep going".
After finishing in the bottom two of the leaderboard in the first two weeks of the competition, the judges sent Melanie and Aljaz home during Sunday's (October 11) results show, following a dance-off against former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips and his partner Alexis Warr.
Emotional farewell and fan reaction
Speaking to host Emma Willis, Melanie said: "To be honest, no truth of a lie, I thought I was going to be out last week." Her professional partner told the actress she was the “ultimate professional”, adding: "You showed me what hard work really is and what it means."
Following confirmation of their exit, Janette, a former Strictly pro and It Takes Two host, took to Instagram with her own message of support. She said: "I could not be prouder of these two on @bbcstrictly. They worked so hard every day and made sure to have all the fun along the way. Lyra and I love you so much Bučko, and now we’ll be home together having all the family time and cuddles!"
Fans were quick to respond. @kaylarhannah16 said: "The proudest. Never ever nice to see your favourite be eliminated." @corfujayne commented: "Very sad they have gone … we want to see them go further." @rebecca_kerry10 wrote: "Aljaz is a true gentleman. sad their journey ended so soon. Enjoy your family time." @chantelbriody56 added: "Aljaz and Melanie were wonderful. Dancing. humour. Kindness. Hugs to you all."
Melanie reflects on her time
Speaking to Melanie after her elimination, TV presenter Tyler West said in new spin-off show, Lights Up, on BBC iPlayer, that she must be very proud of herself, to which she responded: "I'm so proud that I said yes to it because it's such an amazing opportunity. And also to feel the fear and do it anyway. So anyone who gets the opportunity, you have to say yes, because I've loved the last few weeks."
Tyler asked if there is anything she might have done differently, Melanie joked: "I would've been better," before Aljaz cut in and said she had been "perfect".
