December 2nd 2024.
Janette Manrara, one of the beloved stars of Strictly Come Dancing, recently opened up about the harsh judgment she faced for returning to work just six weeks after giving birth to her daughter, Lyra Rose. The 41-year-old Cuban-American, who is married to her Strictly co-star Aljaž Skorjanec, was surprised by the criticism she received for resuming her work as a presenter on shows like Morning Live and It Takes Two.
"It baffles me that we judge each other like that," Janette told the Radio Times. She explained that some people questioned her decision, saying she was setting a bad example by going back to work so soon after giving birth. Her It Takes Two co-star, Fleur East, added that it seems like a lose-lose situation for working mothers, as they are criticized whether they choose to work or stay at home.
In September, Janette spoke about the challenges of balancing parenting and work, especially with Aljaž also returning to Strictly this year as a professional dancer. With their families living in different countries, the couple has to rely on future planning to make it all work. Janette shared that it's a "massive juggle" and they have to carefully plan for childcare when they both have busy work schedules.
Despite the challenges, Janette is determined to make it work for the sake of her daughter's happiness. She mentioned that she knows how demanding Strictly can be, and now with a child, it's even more challenging. But she's planning every detail to ensure that Lyra is comfortable and happy amidst the madness.
Janette also admitted that becoming a mother made her slow down her career a bit. As a dancer, her body is her tool, and having a child meant taking a break from work for at least a year or two. But when she landed the role as a presenter on It Takes Two, she felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She could now start a family without worrying about the physical demands of her job.
Janette and Aljaž tied the knot in 2017, and they welcomed their daughter Lyra in July 2023. The couple, who are each other's best friends, are now facing new challenges as they both have demanding schedules. But they are determined to make it work and prioritize their daughter's well-being above all else.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to air on BBC One and iPlayer, and Janette is excited to be a part of the show as a presenter. She's grateful for all the support she's received from her fans and is looking forward to the future with her family by her side. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, don't hesitate to share it with our entertainment team. We'd love to hear from you.
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