Who is Janette Manrara? Janette Manrara Škorjanec is a Cuban-American television presenter, choreographer, and professional dancer who has captivated audiences worldwide. Born on November 16, 1983, in Miami, Florida, she grew up in a vibrant Cuban household that fueled her passion for dance and music. From her early days in musical theater to her standout performances on So You Think You Can Dance and Strictly Come Dancing, Janette has consistently showcased her versatility and talent. Married to fellow dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, she balances her thriving career with her new role as a mother to their daughter, Lyra Rose.
Key Takeaways:
- Janette Manrara's early passion for dance and family support shaped her successful career, from So You Think You Can Dance to Strictly Come Dancing, making her a beloved figure in British entertainment.
- Despite health challenges, Janette Manrara remains dedicated to her career, promoting fitness and wellness while expanding her talents beyond dancing, including a new self-help book and her husband's return to Strictly Come Dancing.
Early Life and Background
Janette Manrara's journey into the world of dance and entertainment began with a rich cultural heritage and a supportive family. Here are some key details about her early life:
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Early Life and Family: Born on November 16, 1983, in Miami, Florida, Janette is the oldest of three children. Her Cuban parents, Luis and Maritza, played a significant role in nurturing her love for music and dance.
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Early Career: Janette's passion for performing arts started young. At just 12, she began performing in musical theater, which laid the foundation for her future career.
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Education: Balancing her love for dance with academics, Janette studied finance at Florida International University while honing her skills in various dance forms, including ballroom, ballet, pointe, jazz, and hip-hop.
Rise to Fame
Janette's talent and perseverance led her to some of the most popular dance reality shows, where she gained widespread recognition.
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So You Think You Can Dance: Janette's journey on So You Think You Can Dance began with an unsuccessful audition. However, she didn't give up and returned in season 5, where she was paired with Brandon Bryant. Her performances were highly praised by judges Mia Michaels and Nigel Lythgoe.
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Return to So You Think You Can Dance: Janette's skills earned her a spot as an All Star in the show's eighth season, where she performed a memorable Paso Doble with contestant Marko Germar.
Strictly Come Dancing
Janette's career took a significant turn when she joined the British TV show Strictly Come Dancing. Her journey on the show has been nothing short of spectacular.
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Strictly Come Dancing: In 2013, Janette joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer. Her first celebrity partner was fashion designer Julien Macdonald, and they were the third couple to be eliminated.
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It Takes Two: Janette's role expanded when she co-hosted Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two with Rylan Clark and later Fleur East. She took over from Zoe Ball in June 2021.
Personal Life
Janette's personal life has been as eventful as her professional career. Her relationship with fellow dancer Aljaž Škorjanec has been a focal point for many fans.
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Personal Life: Janette married Slovenian dancer Aljaž Škorjanec. The couple got engaged in 2015 and tied the knot on July 15, 2017.
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Family: In February 2023, Janette and Aljaž announced they were expecting their first child. Their daughter, Lyra Rose, was born on July 28, 2023.
Health and Wellness
Despite facing health challenges, Janette remains committed to her career and personal well-being.
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Health Issues: Janette has been open about her health, including undergoing a skin treatment that concerned fans. She continues to stay active in her career and personal life.
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Fitness and Wellness: Janette promotes fitness and wellness through appearances on shows like Morning Live, where she shares fitness workouts and health tips.
Stage Performances and Tours
Janette's talent isn't confined to television. She has also made significant contributions to stage performances and tours.
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Burn the Floor: Janette debuted in Burn the Floor – West End at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London on July 21, 2010. She also toured the US with the show from late 2010 through May 2011.
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Touring and Performances: Janette and Aljaž announced several tours, including their 2019 UK Tour 'Remembering The Movies' and their 2021 UK Tour 'Remembering The Oscars'.
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Dancing with The Stars Weekends: In August 2023, Janette announced she would be teaching and performing with Aljaž at Donahey's Dancing with The Stars Weekends in 2024.
Other Ventures
Janette's career extends beyond dancing, showcasing her versatility and passion for the arts.
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National Tours: Janette participated in the national Strictly Come Dancing – The Live Tour in 2017, bringing her dance skills to a broader audience.
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Glee: After So You Think You Can Dance, Janette joined the musical TV series Glee as a principal dancer.
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Social Media Presence: Janette actively engages with fans on social media, sharing updates about her life, career, and personal projects.
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Fan Reaction to New Book: Janette's new self-help book, Tiny Dancer Big World, has received positive reactions from fans, who are excited about her new venture.
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Return to Strictly Come Dancing: In 2024, Janette's husband Aljaž announced his return to Strictly Come Dancing for the show's 20th series. Janette expressed her joy at his return, highlighting their journey on the show.
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Impact on British Culture: Strictly Come Dancing has become a staple of British television, and Janette's contributions have been instrumental in its success. Her dedication and talent have made her a beloved figure in British entertainment.
Celebrating Janette Manrara's Journey
Janette Manrara's story is one of passion, dedication, and talent. From her early days in Miami to her rise on So You Think You Can Dance and Strictly Come Dancing, she's shown incredible versatility. Her transition to co-hosting It Takes Two and her role in Burn the Floor highlight her adaptability. Janette's personal life, including her marriage to Aljaž Škorjanec and the birth of their daughter Lyra Rose, adds depth to her public persona. Her commitment to fitness, wellness, and engaging with fans on social media further cements her as a beloved figure. Janette's journey continues to inspire many, proving that with hard work and passion, dreams can come true. Whether dancing, hosting, or sharing her life with fans, Janette Manrara remains a shining star in the entertainment world.
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