Aljaz Skorjanec is returning to Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer after three years, it has been announced.
The 34-year-old was part of the pro lineup for nine series - winning with Abbey Clancy in 2013 - but decided to leave the show after the 2021 edition.
Now Skorjanec has been confirmed for a return to the show to mark its 20th anniversary and to help fill the gap left by Giovanni Pernice, who stepped down earlier this year.
"I could not be more ecstatic to be back with the Strictly family!" he said in a statement. "This year is such a special one for this legendary show, I can't wait to be a part of it and make my return to the dancefloor.
"I had an absolute ball during my nine-year stint on Strictly, during my time away I became a parent, which has been an exciting challenge in itself and now I'm ready to experience the Strictly magic again. It feels so right to be coming back, I missed the fun, glitter and the judges of course and I hope to make my daughter Lyra proud!"
Strictly executive producer Sarah James added: "We are all so thrilled that Aljaž is back in the Strictly Ballroom, bringing his incredible choreography and passion for dance.
"During his nine series he was a firm favourite with viewers across the country, I'm sure everyone is in for a treat as he joins us to entertain the nation for a very special 20th year of the show."
Strictly is due to return to BBC One in September.
Neil Wilkes
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